Sexual Health Promotion Among University Students: A Psychological Perspective

This chapter focuses on the relationship between identity, mental health, and sexual health among university students in the United Kingdom but provides recommendations for educators, policymakers, and students in international settings. First, the Health Adversity Risk Model is described in relation to sexual health in university students. Second, research into sexual attitudes, behaviors, and norms is reviewed. Third, the implications of the research findings for sexual health education are outlined. It is argued that a detailed understanding of the complex relationship between behavior, identity, and risk, informed by psychological theory, should constitute the basis of sexual health education.