Exploring Sexual Health Literacy and Information Needs: A Qualitative Study of Disadvantaged Youths in a Thai Welfare School

Background: Disadvantaged youths in Thailand are left critically exposed to sexual health risks due to systemic informational barriers that have been largely unaddressed by research. This qualitative study aimed to investigate the sexual health literacy and information needs of disadvantaged youths. Method: The research utilized purposive sampling for in-depth interviews with 16 disadvantaged students at Rajaprajanugroh 58 School in Nonthaburi Province, Thailand and a focus group discussion with 10 of their teachers. Data was collected in August 2025. Results: Disadvantaged youths lack the capacity to critically inquire about and evaluate sexual health information to make appropriate decisions. Their primary information needs include the prevention of pregnancy and communicable diseases, along with an understanding of correct and safe sexual practices. Conclusion: This population needs to develop all five dimensions of sexual health literacy, with the skills of access and understanding being the most critical. These foundational deficits hinder their ability to make informed decisions, often causing them to rely on incomplete or erroneous information.