Parental communication on sexual education: A systematic literature review

This systematic literature review explores the dynamics of parental communication in sexual education by analyzing 19 peer-reviewed articles published between 2014 and 2024. The study utilizes the Scopus database and follows a structured selection process comprising identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion stages. Articles were selected based on their focus on sex education, parent child communication, and social-cultural variables. Four thematic clusters were identified: youth-centered qualitative insights, quantitative evaluations of interventions, health-specific discussions (e.g., HPV, STIs), and social-psychological influences on communication. Findings reveal that while many parents acknowledge the importance of early sexual education, they face challenges rooted in cultural taboos, limited knowledge, personal discomfort, and inadequate support. Effective communication strategies are often those that integrate cultural sensitivity, emotional readiness, and practical tools such as guided conversation models and scenario-based learning—to empower parents in navigating sensitive topics. Digital media, while providing new avenues for information access, also presents risks of misinformation, requiring enhanced digital literacy for both parents and children. Interventions that involve collaboration with schools, healthcare professionals, and community organizations have demonstrated positive impacts, especially when designed to reflect local norms and values. Moreover, the review identifies significant gaps in existing literature, such as the underrepresentation of fathers in communication programs, the lack of standardized tools to assess communication effectiveness, and limited longitudinal studies to evaluate long-term impacts. This review underscores the need for a holistic, adaptable, and inclusive approach to parental communication on sexual health. It recommends the development of culturally adaptive frameworks, father-inclusive strategies, and technology-supported interventions. Future research should address these gaps to enhance the role of parents as proactive and empathetic educators in guiding their children’s sexual development.