Work

Developing the Seeking Sexual Healthcare Services Scale among emerging adults

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Emerging adults may look for sexual healthcare services less frequently than other age groups. This study constructed the Seeking Sexual Healthcare Services Scale to assess behaviors toward seeking sexual healthcare services among emerging adults. In Study 1 ( n = 350), 24 items were developed, and an exploratory factor analysis revealed a 17-item 4-factor model. In Study 2 ( n = 280), two experts in sex-related research reviewed the identified factors and provided feedback on the results from Study 1. Subsequently, 23 items were tested and an exploratory factor analysis revealed a 20-item 4-factor structure, where factors were identified as Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare Importance, Perceived Barriers, Perceived Trust and Support, and Stigma. These factors demonstrated adequate internal reliability and convergent and discriminant validity. This scale may be a reliable and valid tool to assess access to sexual healthcare services and may facilitate continued research efforts to improve access to sexual healthcare services.

Source: Journal of Health Psychology

DOI: 10.1177/13591053251408560

Authors: Ariana Cervantes, Miguel A. Garcia, Andrea Rodriguez-Crespo, Miguel Urbina, Theodore V. Cooper, Osvaldo F. Morera

Institutions: The University of Texas at El Paso, Virginia Commonwealth University

Language: English

Topic: Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650