Peer Educators as Partners in Sexual Health Programming: A Case Study

Abstract The Sexual Health And Peer Education (SHAPE) program implemented in middle schools in Oklahoma County utilizes a hybrid adult and peer educator model to deliver sexual health programming. While peer educators have been incorporated into school-based sexual health programs in the past, this program is unique in its approach to preparing and engaging peer educators. Researchers synthesized data from interviews with program implementers and focus group discussions with teenage peer educators and middle school students who recently participated in the program to understand the process elements that contribute to the benefit of the SHAPE program model. Interviews with program implementers described the thorough peer educator recruitment and training process. Teenage peer educators felt well-prepared to deliver lessons, and through this program, they developed leadership skills, confidence, and grew personally. Middle school students revealed that peer educators were relatable and provided a positive experience where they could engage and ask questions. The application of a hybrid adult and teenage peer educator model proved useful for delivering sexual health topics and benefited students and teenage peer educators. This study’s findings highlight elements that can be utilized in future sexual health programming to prepare and engage teenage peer educators in more meaningful ways.