Risk and Protective Factors of High-risk Sexual Behaviors in Young People: A Systematic Review

Context:

 This research aimed to determine the protective and risk factors of high-risk sexual behaviors.

Studies assessing high-risk sexual behaviors from 2000 to 2021 were reviewed. We retrieved 743 articles from SAGE, Wiley, Science Direct, Taylor & Francis Group, SID, and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers extracted data using a tool developed by the review team. Forty-five articles were included in the final analysis.

Religion, parental care, education, health literacy, and active participation in work activities act as protective factors. On the other hand, negative sexual self-concept, parental divorce, weak religious beliefs, and escaping social rejection make people vulnerable to risky behaviors.

The joint actions of families, schools, and society can effectively deal with such behaviors.