Perspectives on Sexuality and Sexual Health Education for Adolescent with Disability in West Java: Analysis of Support and Disagreement

Dudi Gunawan, Ana Fatimatuzzahra, Neni Meyani, Nandi Warnandi, Setyo Wahyu Wibowo, Nida Nurhamidah, Arif Prawira, Donna Evelina Saragih, Sofi Septiani Julaeha Nursaniah

Abstract


This study investigates the perspectives of teachers, parents, and religious leaders on sexuality and sexual health education for adolescents with disabilities in West Java, Indonesia. It focuses on levels of support and opposition across three key areas: sexuality and sexual behavior, reproductive health, and STI/HIV prevention. The findings reveal strong support for reproductive health education, with 90% of respondents agreeing on its importance, particularly in equipping adolescents with disabilities with essential health knowledge. Support for education on sexuality and sexual behavior is slightly lower at 75%, reflecting some cultural hesitancy. Despite general endorsement, a minority of respondents (10%) voiced disagreement, especially concerning topics of sexuality, citing concerns over cultural appropriateness and the perceived vulnerability of adolescents with disabilities. These results highlight the complexities surrounding comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) for adolescents with disabilities, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive and tailored approaches that involve families and communities in the educational process. This study contributes to understanding how to effectively balance culturally respectful CSE with the unique needs of adolescents with disabilities, offering insights into promoting their sexual health rights in ways that align with local values.


Keywords


Adolescents with Disabilities; Sexual Health; Sexuality Education; West Java.

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.17509/jassi.v25i1.85483

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