THE ROLE OF YOUTH WORKERS IN ADDRESSING ADOLESCENT SEXUALITY

Abstract

This qualitative exploratory study seeks to explore the role of Singapore social workers and counsellors' in their practice with adolescents with sexuality needs. The youth in Singapore continue to experience a diverse range of sexuality issues and needs. Community-based organisations have the potential to be at the forefront of providing critical information, resources, and services related to sexuality to improve their sexual well-being, but we do not yet have a clear understanding of the context in which this occurs. Given the societal stigma towards openly discussing sexuality issues as well as the value-based and moralistic nature of the topic, there is gap in existing literature focused on how social workers and counsellors position themselves to tackle sexuality issues presented by the youth, as well as the barriers they encounter in this process. Qualitative data collection methods comprising of in-depth interviews were conducted with social workers and counsellors who have experiences in addressing adolescent sexuality. The findings of the study will be used to generate implications and recommendations for local social work practice in this domain, with the intention to promote adolescent sexuality and well-being.