Socio-economic context and the sexual behaviour of Ugandan out of school youth

Abstract

This article provides a descriptive analysis of the cultural and socio-economic contexts that shape young people's sexual perceptions and behaviour. Qualitative research was conducted within two Ugandan communities with out of school females and males ages 12-19 years. An innovative methodology placed young people themselves in control of the research agenda to explore sexuality and reproductive health. Nine groups of varying age/sex compositions met weekly over three months. One hundred and thirteen group meetings were recorded, transcribed and analysed by content analysis. This article focuses on linkages between sexual meanings and practices and the contexts of economics, environmental influences, and gender dynamics. Participants expressed intense interest in sex and are influenced by the sexual behaviour of other community members. While both males and females accept that sex involves some exchange of money or gifts, each gender experiences different pressures and motivations within the negotiation process. Financial pressures play a large role in influencing out of school girls to begin engaging in sex in order to meet basic needs. By increasing understanding of young people's perceptions and sexual meanings as well as the contexts in which they occur, programmes have the opportunity to more meaningfully address their sexuality and reproductive health.