SEXUAL HEALTH KNOWLEDGE AND RISKY SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR AMONG ADOLESCENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

This systematic review explores the relationship between sexual health knowledge and risky sexual behaviour among adolescents between 10–19 years, guided by the PRISMA framework, important studies that were published between 2015 and 2026 were gotten from Google Scholar, PubMed, and ResearchGate. A total of 17 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed using a narrative synthesis approach. The findings showed a high prevalence of risky sexual behaviours among adolescents, including early sexual initiation, multiple sexual partners, inconsistency in condom use, and sexual activity influenced by the use of substances. Although many adolescents demonstrate moderate awareness of sexual and reproductive health issues, this knowledge does not necessarily translate into safe sexual practices, highlighting a significant knowledge and behaviour gap. The review identifies key influencing factors such as peer pressure, socioeconomic challenges, cultural and religious norms, limited parental communication, and exposure to sexual media. Additionally, evidence shows that structured sexual health education and peer-based interventions can help increase knowledge and promote safer behaviours, though their impact on long-term behavioural change remains constrained. Overall, the findings emphasise that risky sexual behaviour among adolescents is shaped by complex individual, social, and environmental factors rather than knowledge alone. The study underscores the need for comprehensive and context-sensitive interventions that merge education, family involvement, and socioeconomic support to effectively lessen risky sexual practices and improve adolescent reproductive health outcomes.