Factors Influencing Sexuality in Late Adolescence: A Qualitative Study on Heterosexual Adolescents' Perspectives

Healthcare (Basel). 2023 Nov 24;11(23):3032. doi: 10.3390/healthcare11233032.

Abstract

(1) Background: Sexuality is influenced by the school, family, and social contexts. All of these play a crucial role in promoting adolescents' sexual health and well-being. However, little is known about the factors that have an impact on sexuality in late adolescence. The aim of this study was to explore and describe the perspectives of late adolescents on the factors that influence their sexual lives. (2) Methods: A qualitative study with a descriptive design was carried out. Thirteen interviews were conducted. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and categorized into themes and subthemes. (3) Results: The results of our study offer support for the importance of sexual aspects in the lives of late adolescents who identify as heterosexual. (4) Conclusions: The most influential environments in late adolescent sexuality are the social, family, school, and peer contexts.

Keywords: experiences; late adolescence; qualitative study; sexual education; sexuality.

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.