Abstract

CASTRO-A, Diana et al. Discussion focus groups: a strategy for research on sexual health with adolescents who have lived on the streets of Medellin, Colombia. Rev. Fac. Nac. Salud Pública [online]. 2016, vol.34, n.3, pp.285-296. ISSN 0120-386X.  https://doi.org/10.17533/udea.rfnsp.v34n3a03.

This paper aims to show the importance of discussion focus groups as a methodological strategy for the compilation of information in studies with institutionalized adolescents who have lived on the streets. At the same time, it aims to show the value of this technique in approaching the topic of sexual health with this population, since it allows for flexible and reflexive researcherparticipant and participant-participant interaction. The value of this methodological strategy is supported in this article through accounts and results obtained during the implementation of a study conducted with institutionalized adolescents between 2013 and 2014. We expect these results will reduce the beliefs of professionals regarding the limitations of the strategy to address issues related to the sexual health of this type of population. The results are divided into four categories: knowledge and perceptions of HIV and STIs, sexual and reproductive health (SRH), the language used in SRH, and access to and use of information and communications technology (ICT). Thus, this paper clearly shows the contribution and potential of the strategy for addressing the issue, approaching and interacting with adolescents who have lived on the street.

Keywords : Methodology; Focus groups; Sexual health; Adolescents who have lived on the street..

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