DSexual Health Practices Self-Efficacy Scale [SHPSES-20]

Description

The Sexual Health Practices Self-Efficacy Scale (SHPSES-20) is a 20-item psychometric self-report instrument designed to assess an individual’s confidence in carrying out behaviors that support sexual health. It focuses on the perceived ability to make informed decisions, communicate effectively, seek appropriate care, and engage in safer sexual practices.

Dimensions

The SHPSES-20 covers several areas of sexual health-related self-efficacy, including sexual relationships, sexual healthcare, sexual abuse or assault, safer sex, sexual equality and diversity, and abstinence.

Purpose

The main purpose of the scale is to assess how confident individuals feel in managing situations related to sexual and reproductive health. It can help identify areas in which individuals may feel less prepared or less capable of applying healthy and protective behaviors.

Scoring

Items are rated using a Likert-type response scale, with higher scores indicating greater self-efficacy in sexual health practices. The resulting scores can be used to examine overall confidence as well as specific areas of sexual health-related functioning.

Applications

The SHPSES-20 can be used in sexual and reproductive health research, health education, prevention programs, and behavioral studies. It is particularly relevant for examining the relationship between self-efficacy, health knowledge, communication, and safer sexual behavior.

References

Fisher, T. D., Davis, C. M., Yarber, W. L., & Davis, S. L. (Eds.). (2010). Handbook of Sexuality-Related Measures. Routledge.

Koch, P. B., et al. Sexual Health Practices Self-Efficacy Scale (SHPSES).