'Sweden has changed me': a qualitative study exploring the sexual health needs and associated mental health aspects of young male former unaccompanied minors, asylum seekers and refugees in Region Stockholm, Sweden.

OBJECTIVES

Sexual health needs of young refugees and asylum-seeking men are seldom explored or addressed, adversely affecting their mental and physical well-being. By interviewing young male former unaccompanied minors, refugees and asylum seekers in Stockholm, Sweden, this study aimed to get a deeper understanding of what they needed to achieve a positive and respectful approach to sexuality, romantic and consensual relationships. Additionally, we explored how their sexual health needs were related to their mental health, as well as the factors influencing both.

DESIGN

An exploratory qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was employed. Theoretical sampling was used for participant selection. Analysis of the data was performed using constructivist grounded theory.

SETTING

The study took place in Stockholm, Sweden.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 32 young male (aged 16-28) former unaccompanied minors, asylum seekers and refugees from Afghanistan, Eritrea and Syria were interviewed.

RESULTS

Our analysis showed that our participants' sexual and mental health needs followed a process of individual change. One core category described the different stages of the process: 'On my way, but not there yet'. It contains four subcategories: 'being on the move: the migration journey'; 'newly arrived: contrasting old and new values and learning new concepts'; 'navigating relationships, love and sex'; and 'the respectful man'. We identified six key factors that influenced their sexual and mental health needs: attending school/receiving accurate sexual information, support to adapt, experiencing enjoyable relationships, restrictive parental values, exposure to stigma/discrimination and the negative image of young male refugees.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlighted that the sexual health needs and related mental health aspects of young former unaccompanied minors, asylum seekers and refugees change over time and are influenced by contextual factors. Educational interventions aiming to improve the well-being of this population must address both sexual and mental health aspects, including issues related to gender norms, relationships, sex and consent.