Sexual risk-taking behavior amongst emerging adults in a tertiary institution of learning in Coastal Kenya: A qualitative study of stakeholders’ perspectives using causal loop mapping

This study, conducted by Chea and colleagues in 2023, examines sexual risk-taking behavior among young adults at a higher education institution in Coastal Kenya. The research uses a method called causal loop mapping to gather and analyze perspectives from various stakeholders. Causal loop mapping is a way of visually representing the factors that influence behaviors and how these factors interact with each other. By using this method, the researchers aimed to identify the reasons behind risky sexual behaviors among emerging adults. The study involved interviews and discussions with students, educators, health professionals, and community members to understand their views on what drives sexual risk-taking. The goal was to uncover the underlying causes and contributing factors, such as social, cultural, economic, and environmental influences. The findings provide valuable insights into the complex factors that lead to risky sexual behaviors. Understanding these can help in designing better health education programs and interventions to reduce the prevalence of such behaviors and improve sexual health among young adults in educational settings. In summary, this research highlights the various factors influencing sexual risk-taking behavior among young adults in a university in Coastal Kenya. By understanding these factors, more effective strategies can be developed to promote safer sexual practices and improve overall sexual health.