Adolescents and AIDS Prevention: A School‐based Approach in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study explores the perception of young people in Zimbabwe about their sexual behavior and risks of HIV infection. The study was undertaken in five secondary schools in a sample selected to represent a variety of communities and urban settings in the greater Harare area. A total of 56 discussion groups were held with youth of the same sex. The topics of the discussion groups include: 1) source of sex education; 2) values and beliefs about puberty and sexual activity; 3) factors in sexual decision making; 4) relationship between boyfriends and girlfriends; 5) knowledge of AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases; and 6) communications skills and peer pressure. This study indicates that adolescents are sexually active and would benefit from a forum in which they would safely ask questions about sex, express their feelings, and learn appropriate communication skills. In order to provide this forum, an intervention was designed and tested at 36 schools. The experience of the intervention has been that teachers, if properly trained, can help adolescents acquire skills necessary for making responsible decisions about their sexual behavior.