LEVEL OF SEXUAL EDUCATION AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 18-26
Davit Katamadze
E-mail: datoqatamadze@gmail.com
Assistant Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8815-1167
Kristina Shakhpekian
E-mail: Shax.qristina@gmail.com
Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University, First year student of the specialty Clinical psychology
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4634-2715
Abstract. The level of sexual education plays an essential role in reproductive health as well as emotional, behavioral, and social well-being. Sexual education is particularly relevant among young people who mainly rely on informal sources such as the internet and social media, leading to misinformation, unrealistic expectations, and risky behaviors. The aim of this study was to assess the level of sexual education among young people aged 18–26. A 31-item anonymous questionnaire created by the author was administered to 50 participants (25 females, 25 males). Findings indicate that the overall level of knowledge is relatively high; however, significant gaps remain in crucial areas such as pregnancy risks associated with pre-ejaculate, mechanisms of hormonal contraception, sperm survival rates, and the inefficiency of withdrawal as a contraceptive method. Women demonstrated higher levels of theoretical knowledge, whereas men often presented misconceptions despite reporting sexual experience. The hypothesis that sexual education levels are low among young people was not supported. The findings highlight the need for structured and accessible sexual education programs.
Key words: sexual education, youth, reproductive health, STI, contraception
JEL classification: I120, I140
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