Adolescence and Sexuality in the Context of HIV and AIDS:
Views and Concerns of Pupils in a Rural Primary School in Kenya

Authors: Belita, Alice, N., Kulane, Asli, & Ahlberg, Beth M.

Address: Alice N Belita, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Global Health (IHCAR), Nobels väg 9-11,
Solna, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.

E-mail: Asli.Kulane@ki.se

Source: Child Health and Education; 2011, Vol. 3, Iss. 2, pp. 122-136 [English]

ISSN: 1911-7758

Peer-Reviewed: Yes

Language: English

Mots clés/Keywords: HIV; AIDS; Adolescence;

Résumé/Abstract:
New HIV infections in Kenya have been mostly among young people 15–24 years of age. The Maasai adolescents are an important group to study as
the Maasai have a distinct culture, which in light of current political and socioeconomic changes could be a risk factor for HIV infection. The aim of this
study was to explore the views and concerns of school youth on adolescence and sexuality in the context of HIV and AIDS.A qualitative method using
self-generated questions was used. The school youth wrote questions on adolescence, sexuality and HIV and AIDS, or those questions they could not
ask their parents or other adults for fear or shame. They reported being curious about sex, sexual urge and feelings that they have. They expressed
confusion about adolescence and their experiences as adolescents in terms of both physical and emotional changes. They are also subject to prohibitive
silence from adults to an extent that they express fear of reporting sexual abuse. Relationship between different sexes was reflected as one that needed
to be sanctioned; hence the young people wanted to know how they should relate with each other. They had concerns about condom use that indicated
they were exposed to the different discourses on condom use. They showed limited knowledge on HIV and AIDS and STIs and also expressed eagerness
to know more about them. In conclusion, communication between parents and their children on issues of sexuality needs to be assessed. Interventions for
young people that involve the communities should be encouraged.

Article (352 KB pdf)

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