Exploring HIV risk perceptions amongst students at a South African university

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The youth has been identified as one of the most vulnerable, at risk groups of HIV infection. The effects of HIV amongst this population hold many dire consequences and subsequently much investment has been put into HIV prevention programmes amongst this population. It is important that these are prevention programmes with impact. Prevention programmes with impact need to understand and consider the factors that interfere with safe sexual practices. One such factor is risk perception. This study sought to explore the HIV risk perception of students at a South African University (Stellenbosch University). It further sought to understand the underlying factors which influence the risk perception amongst students with the aim of making recommendations for improved prevention initiatives. The research methods included both quantitative and qualitative methods. Data collection was done through a survey questionnaire, focus group discussions and interviews. Statistical analysis was used to analyse the quantitative data while grounded theory was used to analyse the qualitative data. The study found a low HIV risk perception amongst students. While some students low HIV risk perception were appropriate to their sexual behaviour, some factors influencing risk perception raised concern about the low risk perception rate found amongst students.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University