A Qualitative Study on the Perspectives of Young Adults in Iqaluit on School-based Sexual Health Education

Introduction:  Historical traumas led to the alteration of traditional education pathways, including education on sexual and reproductive health and healthy relationships. Parents no longer are the sole or majority source of information on these topics for youth; the education system and medical professionals have largely replaced parents to this regard. However, for many Inuit youth, parents largely remain the preferred source for this information. Methods: This narrative research study explores young people’s perspectives on the topic of sexual health education. Six sharing circles were conducted on six separate occasions in [community]. 12 youth aged 18 to 22 years participated, which included men (n=3), women (n=8), and non-binary persons (n=1). Four participants identified as LGBTQ+. Results: Sexual health education youth received was perceived to lack information they want and need to live sexually health lives. Peer networks were deemed a positive influence, however at times exerted pressure on youth to participate in sexual activities for which they were not ready. Parents were rarely a source of sexual health information, though youth overwhelmingly desired conversations on sexual health topics with their parents. Conclusion: Results show there is a need to implement community-based resources to address sexual education within Nunavut communities, and to educate parents on how to communicate sexual health information to their adolescent children. The development of a resource for adults could decrease the gap between youth and existing sexual health information including accessing support from family.