In the first of two articles, Rachael Smith Argues that the development of a sound, accurate knowledge base is a prerequisite to participating in sexual health promotion

Hearsay about young people’s sexual activity is both prevalent and varied, and lay people and professionals can be guilty of airing their opinions on the subject as facts. However, if health professionals are to be effective in the promotion of young people’s sexual health, skills and interventions must be based, not on unsubstantiated opinion, but on sound and accurate knowledge, underpinned by an awareness and understanding of issues which affect young people's developing sexuality. This article discusses literature relating to young people’s sexual activity, including teenage pregnancy, and how young people learn about sexual matters. It concludes by identifying challenges to personal beliefs and perceptions which have the potential to affect professional practice.