Promoting Safer Sexual Behaviours by Employing Social Cognitive Theory Among Gay University Students: A Pilot Study of A Peer Modelling Programme

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Mar 10;17(5):1804. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17051804.

Abstract

Unsafe and unprotected sexual behaviours are some of the significant challenges of health promotions and planning for current school environment. Although schools and health specialists constantly host conferences and workshops for adolescents and university students, the results are not significant. Particularly for sexual minorities, the heterosexual-oriented materials may not satisfy their needs due to the differences. As a recommendation, the current pilot study established a Peer Modelling Programme which engaged gay social workers and gay university students who have associated with unsafe and unprotected sexual activities. The outcomes of this Peer Modelling Programme indicated that gay undergraduate students tended to accept the recommendations and peer modelling exchanges from their gay social workers who understood their difficulties and sexual needs as sexual minorities based on the guideline of Social Cognitive Theory. In conclusion, this study may be used to develop additional social work materials, sexual health promotions and health plans for sexual minorities and people with special needs in the society. This research serves as a guideline to social workers who care about the issues of LGBT and sexual minorities.

Keywords: LGBT; Peer Modelling Programme; gay undergraduate; sexual behaviours; sexual education; sexual health promotions; sexual minorities; social cognitive theory.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Humans
  • Pilot Projects
  • Preventive Health Services* / methods
  • Safe Sex* / psychology
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*
  • Social Theory*
  • Students*
  • Universities / trends
  • Young Adult