Exploring the Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Experiences of Young People through Creative Visual Mapping

Background: Innovative solution-focused research with youth is needed to improve sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing among adolescents and young adults (AYA). We sought to identify moments that matter to AYA during the STI testing experience.

Methods: Five social design graduate students and five youth advisory council (YAC) members independently received STI testing and created journey maps documenting their experience. Social design students assisted YAC members in their map creation during group workshops and one-on-one worktime. Participants completed interviews about their experience using their maps to facilitate responses. We used thematic content analysis to synthesize textual interview data.

Results: Participants experienced stress and discomfort throughout the testing process, with three main sources of stress identified: finding a clinic, completing registration forms, and general lack of clarity during the clinical experience. Friendly interactions with providers and staff improved the experience, however. Finally, the physical environment of the clinic space could positively or negatively impact the overall experience.

Conclusions: Journey mapping may be an important tool for identifying solutions to improve STI testing among AYA.