Sexual behaviour trends among young people in Malta

Abstract

This article presents a systematic literature review about the sexual practices of young people who live in Malta. These include surrounding issues such as age at first sexual experience, reasons for engaging in sex, number of sexual partners, contraception use and teenage pregnancy. The systematic literature review is also guided by key elements related to young people’s perspectives and knowledge base about sexual rights and sexual health. The review presents and critically explores research based on quantitative samples and also draws on findings from qualitative interviews, observational studies and young people’s writings on sexuality issues. The review shows that young people in Malta are exploring and engaging with post-traditional sexual lifestyles in which they are culturally and socially immersed. The review is intended to inform policymakers and practitioners working with young people. It also aims to identify preventive factors that are deemed important for securing young people’s sexual health and wellbeing. Finally the article identifies gaps in the literature on sexual behaviour and knowledge among young people in Malta.