Design do fluxo conversacional para tecnologia educacional digital sobre saúde sexual e reprodutiva de adolescentes

Abstract

The technological revolution has driven new pathways for health education, especially to meet the needs of Generation Z, known for its familiarity with digital resources. Despite broad access to information, significant gaps persist in adolescents’ knowledge regarding contraceptive methods, condom use, prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and other aspects of sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Data from the 2019 PeNSE survey indicate that many adolescents initiate sexual activity between ages 13 and 15, and 59% do not use condoms regularly; furthermore, 18% of births in Brazil are to adolescent mothers, with higher concentration in the Northeast region. This study aimed to model the conversational flow of a Digital Educational Technology (DET) on SRH directed at adolescents. This qualitative study was guided by Design Thinking and comprised the stages of empathy, definition, and ideation. The project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Ceará (CAAE 79002424.2.0000.5054). In the empathy stage, focus groups were conducted with 55 adolescents aged 14 to 17 years (mean age of 15.8), enrolled in a public school in Fortaleza (Ceará), to understand their perceptions, doubts, and informational needs. Discourse analysis using IRAMUTEQ software resulted in four thematic axes: (1) Prevention methods and perceptions of sexual safety; (2) Relationships, identity, and self-care; (3) Support networks and mental health; and (4) Communication, body, and consent. In the definition stage, an Empathy Map was developed, synthesizing an adolescent persona characterized by affective and bodily discoveries, contradictory influences from family members and social media, and active searches for information in digital environments. The needs identified emphasize the importance of clear information, emotional support, and a safe space for dialogue. In the ideation stage, a brainstorming process enabled the mapping and organization of potential subthemes, culminating in the structural proposal for the DET’s conversational flow. The findings provided the foundation for developing an educational technology capable of acting as an empathetic, reliable interlocutor and offering qualified SRH information. Prototyping and testing stages will be conducted in future studies.