Title: Patterns of sexual behaviour among secondary school students in Swaziland, southern Africa.

POPLINE Document Number: 194680

Author(s):

Buseh AG

Source citation:

Culture, Health and Sexuality, 2004 Jul-Aug;6(4):355-367.

Abstract:

Among the many sub-Saharan African countries hardest hit by HIV/AIDS is the Kingdom of Swaziland. In an effort to reduce the spread of HIV, young people are an important group to reach with prevention messages. However, before developing such programmes, it is essential to understand young people’s sexual risk behaviours. Students (n=941) from four coeducational secondary schools in Swaziland participated in a crosssectional survey of sexual behaviours. Results indicate that considerable proportions of young people in this study were sexually experienced, irrespective of gender. Findings also suggest unacceptable high levels of sexual coercion, irrespective of age or gender. While boys may be less likely than girls to experience sexual coercion, being a male in this setting was not a protective factor. No significant differences were found on these variables in relation to location of the schools (rural vs. urban). Implications for developing and implementing HIV prevention programmes are suggested. (author's)

Keywords:

Swaziland
Research Report
Cross Sectional Analysis
Secondary Schools
Students
HIV Infections
Sex Behavior
AIDS
Risk Behavior
Condom Use
HIV Prevention
Developing Countries
Africa, Southern
Africa, Sub Saharan
Africa
Research Methodology
Schools
Education
Viral Diseases
Diseases
Behavior
Risk Reduction Behavior