An exploration of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, attitudes and risky sexual behaviour of first-year psychology students at the University of the Western Cape

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: HIV/AIDS risky behaviour remains a critical health concern for adolescents, specifically at university level. In South Africa, as in many other developed countries, the primary method of HIV/AIDS transmission is heterosexual intercourse (UNAIDS, 2006). Consequences of risky behaviour include unplanned and unprotected sex, HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Adolescents who decide to delay their first sexual experience sexual debut, will certainly have a better chance of not having their lives at risk with HIV/AIDS infections, than those who have an earlier sexual debut.In light of the above, this study was conducted to explore the level of sexual knowledge and attitudes about risky sexual behaviour and to identify trends in misinformation among young adults about HIV/AIDS. The study made use of a quantitative research approach. A self-administered baseline questionnaire, used for data collection, was administered to a group of students in a South African university setting. The survey focussed on the areas of HIV/AIDS and sexual reproductive health, in order to better understand young adults' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and risky sexual behaviour around HIV/AIDS. A sample of (n=220) first-year Psychology students, with ages ranging between 18 and 24 years, were invited to participate in the study. Respondents had an average age of 19.7 years, and were 164 female and 56 male undergraduates. A total of 220 respondents responded to the questionnaire, resulting in a return response rate of 100%.The findings indicated that over 80% of the students have high levels of knowledge and attitudes with regard to HIV/AIDS. They would on the other hand, refuse having sexual intercourse with a partner without a condom during sexual intercourse. Over 80% had chosen to abstain from sex till their wedding day. Fourty-eight percent (48%) felt that more educational and awareness programmes with regard to HIV/AIDS are necessary. Changing behaviour proves to be the key variable which can impact on the spreading and prevention of the HI-virus.Furthermore, the study will make recommendations for future preventative interventions to address the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University