'There is no shame in it any more': How providers of sexual health advice view young people's sexuality

Abstract

Interviews were carried out with 19 providers of sexual health care to young people. Providers were asked to reflect on many relevant issues including the service they provided and its strengths and weaknesses. They were also asked to comment on teenage sexuality. There were marked differences of view between those who provide advice via a general practice and those who operate from a designated service for young people. However, all providers tended to hold negative views of young people and their sexual activity. It is considered how far these underlying attitudes may militate against the provision of an appropriate service.