Three decades of sexual and reproductive health literacy and information behaviour research on adolescent and young adult males: a scoping review

The transition to adulthood for adolescent and young adult males, those aged 17 to 24, is often characterized by heightened sexual and reproductive health (SRH) risks. These risks are frequently attributed to rigid masculinity norms, insufficiently targeted health interventions, and a reluctance to seek formal care. This population is increasingly relying on the internet and related digital technologies for health information, yet not much is known about how they evaluate the credibility of online information and what sources they use. This review seeks to quantify the volume and geographical spread of current research, identify the methodologies and data types utilized in the field, and synthesize the principal findings regarding AYA males’ SRH literacy and information behaviour. We conducted a scoping review that included a comprehensive search across eight databases— Medline , Embase , CINAHL , Scopus , PsycInfo , Sociological Abstracts , ERIC , and Google Scholar —for peer-reviewed, English-language studies published between 1990 and 2024. Studies were included if they examined males aged 17–24 and focused on SRH literacy or information behaviour. The final sample comprised 48 studies and each was coded, and analysed to identify major patterns, trends, and thematic categories. Most research were based in the USA, utilized quantitative methods, and focused on sexually transmitted infections, contraceptives, and information accessibility. The sample sizes of the studies ranged from as low as 14 to as high as 7,398, with half of studies focusing exclusively on males. Seven major themes were identified in the coding process: types of SRH information sources, evaluation of information quality, functional SRH literacy, interactive SRH literacy, social determinants of SRH information behaviour, effects of SRH literacy on SRH outcomes, and strategies for improving SRH literacy and information behaviour. A persistent gap exists between high general awareness and low functional knowledge of critical SRH topics such as non-HIV sexually transmitted infections and fertility. This suggests an expansion of information reach without a corresponding improved health competencies. Insights from this scoping review are crucial for healthcare providers and policymakers, supporting the development of competency-specific resources and tailored services that address the unique socio-cultural barriers such as stigma, social and religious norms, and literacy gaps faced by adolescent and young adult males.