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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Abstract
Introduction: Knowledge provides the foundation for values, attitudes and behavior. Knowledge
about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and positive attitudes are essential for implementing
protective behaviors. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate SRH knowledge and
attitudes in college students and their association with sexual and reproductive behaviors.
Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 1946 college students.
The data were collected using a self-report questionnaire on the sociodemographics
characteristics of the sample, an inventory on SRH knowledge and an attitude scale, and were
analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics (ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation).
Results: The sample was 64% female and 36% male, with a mean age of 21 years. The majority
were sexually active and used contraception. The SRH knowledge was moderate (22.27 ± 5.79;
maximum score = 44), while the average SRH attitude score was more favorable (118.29 ±
13.92; maximum score = 140). Female and younger students studying life and health sciences
had higher (P < .05) SRH knowledge and attitude scores. The consistent use of condom and
health care surveillance were highly dependent on the students’ SRH knowledge and attitudes.
Engagement in sexual risk behaviors was associated with lower scores for these variables.
Conclusions: Strategies to increase SRH knowledge and attitudes are important tools for improving
protective behaviors, especially with respect to contraception, health care surveillance and
exposure to sexual risk. Older males studying topics other than life sciences should be a priority
target for interventions due to their higher sexual risk
Description
Keywords
Attitude Knowledge Sexual and reproductive behavior College students
Citation
Santos, M. J., Ferreira, E., & Ferreira, M. (2016). Knowledge of and attitudes toward sexual and reproductive health among college students. Atención Primaria, 48(Espec Cong 1), 188-194. Acedido em http://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-atencion-primaria-27-articulo-knowledge-attitudes-toward-sexual-reproductive-X0212656716593728
Publisher
Elsevier España