Development and Evaluation of a Disability-Inclusive Training Program about Couples’ Relationships and SRHR for Young Adults in Jordan

Background: While Jordan has enacted progressive disability rights legislation, gaps persist in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) education. National data shows 68.5% of youth lack basic reproductive health information, with even lower awareness among youth with disabilities, with people with disabilities representing 11.2% of Jordan’s population aged five years and above.

Objectives: This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a disability-inclusive training program about couples’ relationships and SRHR, for young adults (18-30 years) with disabilities in Jordan, with the goal of paving the way for an officially endorsed educational program ready for wider dissemination in Jordan.

Methods: Aligning with the principle of “Nothing about us without us”, this experiential research includes participants in the design process, ensuring user-centered outcomes. Researchers conducted focus groups (n = 42) and expert interviews (n = 3) to assess needs. A prototype training program was developed and tested through online workshops with small gender-segregated cohorts, including participants with and without disabilities. Evaluation used the Kirkpatrick Model, measuring satisfaction, knowledge, and attitudinal change.

Results: Following the course delivery, analysis showed statistically significant improvements in Rights Awareness (p = .032), Sexual Health (p = .004), and Reproductive Health (p = .005). The integrated disability approach proved effective. Qualitative data showed increased empowerment and validated the framework of connecting SRHR to healthy relationships, within the Jordanian context.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated the effectiveness of a culturally appropriate, disability-inclusive training program about couples’ relationships and SRHR in Jordan, presenting a replicable model that emphasizes participatory approaches. Future iterations can better support the evolution of social mindsets through a widened application of Social Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) framework.

Authors: Fadi EL Halabi, Mirna Abi Aad Abi Nassif, and George Saadé.