IDENTIFICATION OF KNOWLEDGE ABOUT SEXUALITY IN HIGH SCHOOL ADOLESCENTS AT A STATE SCHOOL IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SANTA HELENA – PR

Abstract

Adolescence is one of the stages of human development, where physical changes stimulated by hormonal action occur. It is the attributes of puberty that will give rise to numerous psychological events culminating in the acquisition of sexual identity, in addition to psychological, family and social adaptation. It is in adolescence that many start their sexual life and can lead to an unwanted pregnancy. This study aimed to identify the knowledge of high school adolescents about sexuality. The methodology used was exploratory, descriptive, with a quantitative research approach, in order to collect information on the subject addressed through questionnaires. From the results it was possible to observe that sexuality is still a little discussed topic both in the family and school axis. Still, the adolescents recognized their current period of development as a difficult and troubled phase and that, if they were more open to dialogue with their parents, they would feel more secure about their weaknesses. Young people also reported the lack of educational activities in schools and that these could contribute to learning about the subject. It is clear, therefore, that sexuality is a timeless topic and of fundamental importance in the maturation of young people. Sexual education must be promoted and articulated together, through actions, between primary and educational care in order to contribute to the promotion of health and the personal development of young people.