School tracks influence the sexual health of adolescents in Europe
In Europe, adolescents enrolled in vocational tracks show marked differences in sexual health compared to those in general education. An in-depth analysis of 47 studies involving more than 177,000 young people reveals that students in vocational pathways generally have less knowledge about sexuality, earlier sexual initiation, and an increased risk of early pregnancies.
Sexual health, defined as a state of physical, emotional, and social well-being related to sexuality, is not limited to the absence of diseases or dysfunctions. It also includes the ability to experience safe and fulfilling sexual relationships, free from coercion or discrimination. However, young people in vocational tracks seem less equipped to address these dimensions. For example, they often lack awareness of sexually transmitted infections and prevention methods, which exposes them more to risky behaviors.
The gaps widen particularly in certain areas. Adolescents in vocational tracks more often have sexual intercourse at an early age and have multiple partners, while using contraception less frequently. Teenage pregnancies are also more common in this group. Conversely, few differences appear regarding condom use or exposure to sexual violence.
These disparities are partly explained by contextual factors. Young people in vocational tracks enter stages traditionally associated with adulthood earlier, such as entering the job market or starting a family. This precocity is often accompanied by greater peer group influence, where the search for recognition can lead to adopting risky behaviors. Additionally, the sexual education provided in these tracks is sometimes less tailored to their needs, both at school and within the family.
Ethnic origin also plays a role. The differences between tracks are more pronounced in studies where the majority of participants do not have a migratory background. For young people from immigrant backgrounds, other factors such as cultural norms or barriers to accessing sexual health resources may mitigate the impact of the school track.
This analysis highlights the complexity of the links between education and sexual health. The results vary by country, school systems, and populations studied, making any generalization risky. Yet, a trend emerges: inequalities in knowledge and sexual behaviors are very real and call for targeted interventions. Early and tailored sexual education specific to the needs of vocational tracks could help reduce these gaps.
Information and Sources
Scientific Reference
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-026-02364-3
Title: Educational Differences in Sexual Health among Adolescents in Europe: A Meta-Analysis
Journal: Journal of Youth and Adolescence
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Authors: Pascalle Heijligenberg; Margreet E. de Looze; Marlies Maes; Kai J. Jonas; Karlijn Massar