Sexual Behavior and Health Outcomes Among Adolescents and Young Adults
A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2026 | Viewed by 18
Special Issue Editor
2. Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1495-751 Lisbon, Portugal
3. ISAMB/Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-026 Lisboa, Portugal
Interests: sexual health; sex education; health promotion; health and behavior of adolescents and young people
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Adolescence and young adulthood are critical developmental stages marked by profound physical, emotional, and social changes. During this period, individuals begin to explore their identities, form intimate relationships, and engage in sexual behaviours that may have significant and lasting implications for their health and well-being. The intersection between sexual behaviour and health outcomes—including mental health, sexual and reproductive health, and social development—has become an increasingly important area of study in public health and the behavioural sciences.
This Special Issue aims to advance interdisciplinary knowledge on sexual behaviour and its health-related consequences among adolescents and young adults. We welcome original research, systematic reviews, and theoretical contributions that examine topics such as sexual initiation, contraception use, STI prevention, gender identity, sexual orientation, consent, digital sexual behaviours, and the role of education and policy. We also encourage submissions that consider the impact of social determinants of health, cultural contexts, and intersectionality.
By fostering a multidimensional and global perspective, this Special Issue seeks to promote evidence-based strategies and inclusive policies that support safe, informed, and healthy sexual development. Contributions from diverse disciplines and geographical contexts are especially welcome to deepen our understanding and inform future research, practice, and advocacy.
Dr. Marta Reis
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- adolescent sexual behaviour
- young adult health
- sexual and reproductive health
- sexual risk-taking
- STIs and contraception
- LGBTQ+ youth
- digital sexuality
- sexual health education
- mental health and sexuality
- public health interventions
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