Sexuality education for primary school students with disability in Fiji

Bibliographic Data

ID21323634
AuthorsJessica R Botfield (0000-0001-6157-9739, Family Planning NSW, Ashfield, NSW, Australia, corresponding author), Sera Ratu (Reproductive and Family Health Association of Fiji, Suva, Fiji), Esiteri Turagabeci (Reproductive and Family Health Association of Fiji, Suva, Fiji), Jane Chivers (Family Planning NSW, Ashfield, NSW, Australia), Loren McDonald (Family Planning NSW, Ashfield, NSW, Australia), Eleanor G Wilson (0000-0002-7049-0071, Family Planning NSW, Ashfield, NSW, Australia), Yan Cheng (0009-0000-2568-1365, Family Planning NSW, Ashfield, NSW, Australia)
Year2021
Volume80
Issue7
Pages785-798
Publication date2021-11-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueHealth Education Journal (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0017-8969 • E-ISSN: 1748-8176
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/00178969211011227
OpenAlexW3157119545
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited23

Background: People with disability have the same sexual and reproductive health needs and rights as people without disability, yet experience considerable barriers in accessing information and services. The Reproductive and Family Health Association of Fiji, Family Planning Australia, and disability stakeholders implemented a comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) disability inclusion project to increase access for students with disability to age-appropriate sexuality education. Method: A train the trainer model was utilised, whereby staff and disability stakeholders undertook competency-based training on delivering sexuality education to teachers and people with disability, then trained and supported teachers working in special disability schools to provide sexuality education to students. An evaluation explored the acceptability and effectiveness of the project, utilising baseline and endline surveys and interviews. Findings: From 2016 to 2018, the CSE disability project reached teachers and students in nine special disability schools in Fiji. At project completion, teachers reported increased confidence overall in teaching about sexuality and relationships, and students demonstrated increased knowledge regarding puberty and body changes. Interview findings suggested the project contributed to overcoming silence and stigma for people with disability and promoting safety for young people. Conclusion: Age- and developmentally appropriate sexuality education for people with disability is essential for equipping them with necessary knowledge and skills. The CSE disability project utilised a collaborative, capacity building approach to co-design and implement sexuality education in special disability schools in Fiji. With commitment from stakeholders, this could be sustained and expanded to support students with disability in achieving optimal sexual and reproductive health

Environmental health · Human sexuality · Inclusion (mineral) · Medical education · Medical model of disability · Population · Psychiatry · Reproductive health · Sexuality education · Sociology · Trainer · Disability Rights and Representation · Gender Studies · Healthcare innovation and challenges · Intimate Partner and Family Violence · Medicine · Nursing · Psychology · Social Psychology