Outcomes of three different models for sex education and citizenship programs concerning knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of Brazilian adolescents
Díaz, M.; Mello, M.Brito.de.; Sousa, M.Helena.de.; Cabral, F.; Castro e Silva, R.de.; Campos, Márcia.; Faúndes, A.
Cadernos de Saude Publica 21(2): 589-597
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0102-311X PMID: 15905922 DOI: 10.1590/s0102-311x2005000200026Document Number: 256390
Three different school-based sex education and citizenship programmes in public schools in Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, and Salvador, all in Brazil, were evaluated in a cross-sectional study. The knowledge, attitudes, and practices in sexuality, citizenship, and gender issues among adolescents participating in the programmes' activities were compared with adolescents enrolled in schools without such programmes (controls). The results showed that the programme in Salvador achieved good results, with significant changes in knowledge on sexuality and reproductive physiology, attitudes regarding citizenship, and current use of modern contraceptives. The programme in Rio de Janeiro succeeded in improving the students' knowledge of reproductive physiology and attitudes towards sexuality. The participants in Belo Horizonte showed greater knowledge of reproductive physiology and sexually transmitted disease/human immunodeficiency virus prevention, but had less positive attitudes towards gender issues, while reporting greater sexual activity. The main difference between the programme in Salvador and the others was the focus on creative and cultural activities. The main difference with Belo Horizonte was its lack of interaction with health services and professionals. However, after the evaluation, Belo Horizonte reframed its educational strategies and launched a scaling-up process in a joint effort with the health and school systems.