Dynamic contextual analysis of young people's sexual health: a context specific approach to understanding barriers to, and opportunities for, change

This booklet has been developed to guide programme and project leaders through the process of carrying out a Dynamic Contextual Analysis (DCA) focusing on young people’s sexual and reproductive health. It includes sections on planning, conducting the fieldwork, analysing and disseminating the findings and finally using the findings to influence best practice. A variety of methodologies and procedures are proposed that can be freely adapted to suit individual research contexts and the resources available.

It contains sections on:

Planning a DCA:

• laying the groundwork

Conducting a DCA:

• using existing information
• existing information of relevance to young people
• operational realities: the importance of interviews and observation
• innovative, effective and ineffective interventions

Drawing conclusions and making recommendations:

• analysing the material
• preparing the report
• drawing conclusions

Using the results of a DCA:

• dissemination for optimum impact
• follow-up action
• monitoring change