Exploring Ghanaian Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Information Source(s): A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Adolescents require information on several issues including sexual and reproductive health (SRH), which most of them receive from numerous sources. The study explored the kinds of SRH information sources adolescents in Ghana are exposed to and the source(s) which serve as their trusted one(s) vis-à-vis reasons given for trusting their sources. Using the Qualitative method of inquiry, the authors employed purposive and snowball sampling techniques to sample and interview twenty-one (n=21) adolescents (female and male) of the university of Cape Coast, Ghana. Results revealed that parents, especially mothers, are the most trusted sources of SRH information to adolescents in Ghana. Also, adolescents interviewed revealed that they source SRH information from their peers. Findings of the study inform and contribute to literature on trusted adolescent SRH information sources and impact policy directions on why adolescents in Ghana trust some SRH information sources over others. Implications for guidance and counselling have been discussed.