6th Edition of World Nursing Science Conference 2026

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to explore adolescents’ experiences with participation in a sexual health education program named «Week 6» from a health promotion perspective.

Methods: Six focus group interviews were conducted with adolescents aged 15–16 in Norway. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data material.

Results: The results can be summed up by the main theme: “We like «Week 6» but … we expected more about sex in the sex week”. The main theme consisted of two main analysis-derived themes: “The students want a topical sexual health education, with realistic and relevant learning subjects and exercises”, and “The students want to contribute to the content and implementation to improve the learning outcomes of «Week 6»”. Further, four categories were identified: organization and content, positive experiences, the potential for improvement, and learning outcomes. «Week 6» is desirable, but students expect to learn more. Teaching should have a positive approach, and adolescents do not want their educators to get embarrassed.

Conclusion: Although the teaching methods with active participation are enjoyable, it is necessary to have more time for discussions and questions. Student participation in planning and implementing the program seems crucial for promoting salutogenic teaching processes.

Keywords: Adolescents, complicity, health promotion, positive sexuality, qualitative content analysis, salutogenesis, sense of coherence, sexual health, sexual health education.