Written by: GoINNO team
Young people often find themselves surrounded by a flood of information, not all of it reliable. At the same time, a review of the research over the past thirty years (Eva S. et al., 2020) shows substantial support for comprehensive sex education across a variety of topics and grade levels, addressing a broad spectrum of sexual health and using positive, affirming, and inclusive approaches to human sexuality.
Luckily, some tools can help. One of them is Alex, a chatbot designed to cut through the noise, offering youth a trusted companion to explore the often-sensitive topics of sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Beyond just delivering facts, Alex fosters meaningful conversations that empower young individuals to engage in more informed dialogues with their peers, adults, and trusted professionals. Improved communication with adults, such as parents or trusted teachers, is linked to developing effective communication skills in relationships. Studies show that gaining knowledge about healthy relationships enhances confidence and the ability to discuss sensitive topics, which translates into better interactions both at home and in personal relationships (Eva S. et al., 2020). In this article, we will provide you with some examples, of how can project materials help youth on the way of strengthening their knowledge and communication about SRH.
Encouraging open dialogue
While peers can offer support and shared experiences, engaging in conversations with parents or other trusted adults is equally crucial for a well-rounded understanding of SRH topics. Adults often have valuable insights and experiences that can provide deeper context and guidance. However, initiating such conversations can be challenging due to generational gaps, cultural differences, or fear of judgment. To dig deeper into the communication topics, Alex offers you different types of materials:
- the chat itself, provides you with information in a friendly and interactive way – Follow Alexbot on Instagram
- the infographics that help you visualise the concepts and may give you another perspective that you already have: Using digital tools to discuss sex topics with parents
- text materials, supported by resources that you can use to research further: It is normal to discuss sex with parents
It is important to note that these are not just materials for young people; adults can learn something from them too. Using Alex materials by youth workers or even parents can broaden their horizons and enable them to step into the shoes of young people. The SRH topic is really wide and it is constantly adapting, to new scientific findings and a more inclusive society. This gives much more importance for all of us to keep up to date with changes and innovations while adding their insights and knowledge gained through experience over the years.
Here you can check all topics: Essential lessons on SRH topics
By providing accurate and unbiased information, Alex empowers youth to start meaningful discussions with parents or guardians. Understanding that we all come from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, Alex emphasises the importance of open communication, staying safe, and respected. Check here about inclusion and staying safe.
The right to relevant and nonjudgmental information
Everyone has the right to access accurate and unbiased information, regardless of their background. By ensuring that this information is readily available, Alex helps level the playing field, allowing all youth to make choices that are best for them.
Cultural taboos or societal stigmas can prevent open discussions about SRH. Alex provides a safe starting point for these conversations, helping to overcome initial discomfort in the environment where all users feel seen and respected.
To have meaningful and respectful conversations, and be respected and a good contributor in this sensitive debate, is important to have proper communication skills. And here Alex can help you with tips, on how to communicate effectively about sensitive topics. Among Alex’s materials, you can find topics about communication, including infographics, which will help you to better communicate with parents, trusted adults, peers, doctors or your partner. It sounds useful, what do you think? Check the resources below!
Opening dialogue between parents and young
How to improve my communication
What to expect on a first visit at gynecologist
How to communicate my health history with my partner
How do I come out to my family and friends
Alex is more than a chatbot; it’s a catalyst for meaningful conversations that cross generational and cultural lines. No matter our differences, we all share the right to relevant information and the opportunity to engage in supportive, enriching conversations.
In the end, Alex not only helps communicate by providing accurate information but also encourages critical thinking in youth, by helping them evaluate the facts it shares. By fostering curiosity and teaching users to question myths, analyse different perspectives, and seek evidence-based answers, Alex empowers youth to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health with confidence and independence.
Resources:
1. Three Decades of Research: The Case for Comprehensive Sex Education; Goldfarb, Eva S. et al.; Journal of Adolescent Health, Volume 68 (2021), Issue 1, 13 – 27; https://www.jahonline.org/action/showPdf?pii=S1054-139X%2820%2930456-0
2. https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-youth-parent-resources/conversation-tips/index.html
3. https://spunout.ie/voices/advice/why-talking-about-sex-important/
4. Photo sources: www.alexbot.eu