“How to Make it Out Alive”: A Strengths-Based Analysis of Latinas’ Adolescent Sexual Health Experiences

Abstract

Background Ample evidence demonstrates Latina adolescents’ elevated risk for sexual health disparities, but knowledge of how they manage their sexual health during this critical period of sexual development is limited. Countering the overfocus on Latina adolescents as “at-risk” girls in extant research, this study uses a strengths-based perspective to explore this topic. Methods This study used a narrative research design to gather and analyze the stories of 18 Latina young people who attended school in New York. We employed holistic-content and categorical-content approaches to identify themes and interpret findings through a strengths-based view of sexual health. Results We identified three major themes across participants’ narratives: (1) agency in gaining sexual health information; (2) self-protection; and (3) obtaining sexual healthcare despite barriers. Conclusions Findings underscore the need for more inclusive, culturally relevant sexual health education initiatives, youth-centered services, and interventions that capitalize on the strengths of Latina adolescents.