Geschlechtsspezifische sexuelle Gesundheitsförderung in geschlossenen Einrichtungen. Ein systematisches Review zum internationalen Forschungsstand

Introduction Institutions that involve the deprivation of liberty have a legal mandate to promote sexual health and sex education. According to the Ottawa Charta of the [World Health Organization from 1986], sexual health promotion must be viewed holistically and is to be based on a broad and intersectional understanding of sexuality and sexual health. Proven gender-specific differences in sexual health competence and sexual behavior must be taken into account. So far, however, programs of sexual health promotion in closed facilities have hardly been documented.

Objectives This contribution aims to present and to discuss the international state of research on gender-specific sexual health promotion in closed, liberty-depriving institutions.

Methods A systematic literature review was conducted and existing concepts and studies on the range of topics mentioned were compiled. For this purpose, six scientific databases were searched for relevant publications in German and English by the deadline of October 6th, 2021. Of the k = 365 publications identified, k = 3 studies met all 13 a priori inclusion criteria (e. g. publication with peer review) after assessment by two reviewers*.

Results A great desideratum regarding evidence-based measures and programs for sexual health promotion in institutions involving deprivation of liberty could be determined. Overall, a broad understanding of sexuality and sexual health is lacking, even in the few programs that exist exclusively in North America. The aims of the present programs are mainly based on a concept of sexuality and sexual health that intends to avert danger.

Conclusion Until now, people in detention have largely been excluded from scientific and social discourses on sexuality and sexual health. The development and implementation of evidence-based programs and measures for sexual health promotion in closed prison facilities appear to be indicated. Central topics such as (own) gender identities, attachment and partnership or gender roles should be discussed and critically reflected on together with the people affected by living in prison.