Sexual Behavior Among Filipino High School Students Who are Deaf

摘要

This study examined the sexual behavior of Filipino Deaf high school students. Participants were active in sexual activities. All the participants acknowledge themselves as Deaf, spelled with a capital D, as they use sign language as a medium of communication. This qualitative study utilized a focus group discussion that was conducted in Filipino Sign Language, the medium of communication used by the participants. Two other teachers who are certified sign language interpreters assisted as some of the participants would sign together during the interaction, making interpretation difficult. The results showed that despite cultural taboo, the participants were active in sexual activities that range from masturbation to full intercourse. Some reported that sexual abuse by a relative or an adult is the reason for the onset of sexual activity.