Correlation between sexual resilience and risky sexual behaviors among health science students in northwestern Mexico

Abstract

Objective: To determine the relationship between sexual resilience and risky sexual behaviors in students of health-related degree programs.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted, including students who had recently begun their sexual lives and who were enrolled in Nursing, Medicine, Dentistry, and Physical Therapy programs at a public university in northwestern Mexico. A sample of 229 students was established.

Results: The average age at the onset of sexual activity was 16 years. Regarding risky sexual behaviors, the mean score was 3.85, indicating that the students have a moderate level of sexual behavior. Sexual resilience scores averaged 82.30, indicating moderate resilience. Using Pearson's correlation coefficient, no significant relationship was found between the two variables.

Conclusion: Based on the research results, the participants demonstrated an adequate level of sexual resilience, which could indicate an ability to cope with and manage risky situations. They also demonstrated various sexual and reproductive health skills.

Keywords: Sexual health; Sexual behavior; Sexually transmitted infections; Students.