Exploring college students' sexual and reproductive health literacy. Issue 1 (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vamos, Cheryl A.; Thompson, Erika L.; Logan, Rachel G.; Griner, Stacey B.; Perrin, Karen M.; Merrell, Laura K.; Daley, Ellen M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of American college health. Volume 68:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 79
• Page End: 88
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: Community health -- health education -- counseling; College students -- Health and hygiene -- United States -- Periodicals; College students -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; College students -- Mental health -- Periodicals; Universities and colleges -- Health promotion services -- Periodicals; 362.10883781980973
• DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2018.1515757
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0744-8481

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To assess college students' sexual and reproductive health (SRH) literacy experiences, specific to contraception use and STI prevention. Participants: In Spring 2015, participants ( n = 43) from a large institution participated in six focus groups (two male and four females groups). Methods: Focus groups were guided by the health literacy domains (access; understand; appraise; apply); data were analyzed in MaxQDA using the constant comparative method. Results: The Internet was the most commonly accessed source for SRH information. Participants discussed facilitators (eg, use of visuals) and barriers (eg, medical jargon) to understanding information; and personal lifestyle, advice from family/friends, symptoms, and sexual partners as appraisal factors. Participants applied information by communicating with friends/providers and seeking healthcare. However, findings were not linear nor mutually exclusive, representing the interaction of health literacy skills. Conclusion: Findings suggest that a patient-centered intervention capitalizing on technology and trusted individuals (providers/peer educators) may facilitate college students' SRH literacy.