Global Health Practice Journal
Vol. 1 No. 2 (2026): February

Forum Theatre as a Health Promotion Intervention for Sensitive Issues of Sexual Violence and Reproductive Health: A Literature Review

Nur Afiaty Mursalim (Department of Applied Health Promotion, Faculty of Sport Science and Health, Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia)
Nur Indah Atifah Anwar (Department of Applied Health Promotion, Faculty of Sport Science and Health, Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia)
Irwandi Rachman (Department of Applied Health Promotion, Faculty of Sport Science and Health, Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2026

Abstract

 Background: Sexual violence and reproductive health issues remain major public health concerns among adolescents and young adults. Conventional health education often fails to address these sensitive topics effectively due to social stigma and limited participant engagement. Forum theatre has emerged as a participatory, arts-based approach that encourages dialogue, critical reflection, and active learning. Aim: This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of forum theatre in improving knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and behavioral intentions related to sexual violence prevention and reproductive health. Methods: A descriptive-analytical literature review was conducted using articles published between 2015 and 2024 from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Garuda. The selection process followed PRISMA guidelines. A total of 12 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed using thematic synthesis. Results: Forum theatre interventions consistently improved participants’ knowledge of sexual consent and reproductive health (p<0.05), reduced acceptance of gender-based violence, and enhanced self-efficacy in resisting coercion and seeking help. Behavioral intentions, including reporting violence and practicing safer behaviors, also showed significant improvement. Emotional engagement and participatory learning were identified as key mechanisms driving these outcomes. Conclusions: Forum theatre is an effective and culturally adaptable approach for addressing sensitive issues in sexual violence prevention and reproductive health promotion. Its integration into educational and community-based programs may strengthen public health interventions.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ghpj

Publisher

Subject

Description

Global Health Practice Journal (E-ISSN 3123-8491) is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing research and knowledge in public health, health systems, global health practice, and related social sciences. GHPJ provides a platform for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and ...