An investigation into the knowledge and attitudes of school girls with regard to sexual practices and aids

Abstract

In South Africa, HIV transmission is overwhelming on the basis of unsafe sexual practices. The future demography of the country depends on the sexual behaviour of the present generation. A healthy generation of young people in the 1990's will ensure a healthy generation of adults needed in the 21st century. However AIDS threatens the existence of this next generation. This study was undertaken to determine the level of knowledge and attitudes of school girls with regard to sexual practices and AIDS. The major tools used for data collection were questionnaires and literature reviews. A sample of 488 respondents was drawn from 12 high schools in the North West Province. The findings revealed that substantial proportions of school girls have 11 superficial II know ledge about AIDS. This know ledge is characterised by lack of sufficient information, misconceptions and misperceptions. Their lack of sufficient knowledge is due to the fact that there is no formal education on AIDS offered in schools. The review of literature, on prevention of AIDS, pointed to a need for education in schools. Involvement of the school is of utmost importance because of its potential to reach many young people. Moreover, virtually all young people are in schools before they initiate risk-taking behaviours. The study suggests therefore, that school based prevention programmes be introduced in schools. In addition, AIDS education should not be offered singly but be integrated in other strategies of prevention programmes. These may include life skills education and primary health education. Finally, the study submits that, to be successful prevention should focus on comprehensive team approach. Prevention is not a limited function of social workers, teachers or health practitioners, but it can be provided in a concerted effort by all these professionals, interested groups as well as parents. By this the spread of the disease can be minimized among young people.