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A study of condom use as part of the sexual culture of tertiary students in South Africa.

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Date

2016

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Abstract

In South Africa, the province of KwaZulu-Natal remains the most affected province. Additionally, South Africa faces a challenge of unintended pregnancies among young people. The issue remains a public health concern and suggests that young people are engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse. Condoms, if used correctly, are argued to be the most effective preventative strategy from both STIs such as HIV and pregnancy. The main aim of the study was to find out the rate of condom use among college students and the motivating factors behind the rates and to uncover barriers of condom consistency. This study employs both the quantitative and qualitative research techniques. A sample was drawn using convenience sampling for quantitative data collection. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires with 202 students and semi-structured interviews with 6 students. Almost 66% of the participants in this study reported having used a condom during their last sexual encounter. The dual protection the condom offers, the students’ hunger for a bright future as well as fear of responsibility came up as motivating factors of condom use. No significant relationship between race, age and marital status against condom use was observed. A significant relationship was detected between gender and condom use. Condom use consistency remains a problem among students. Condoms still remain the most effective preventive method to prevent both pregnancy and HIV infection. The increase in the level of condom use among students gives hope. More attention needs to be paid to methods and strategies aimed at increasing the levels of condom use consistency.

Description

Master of Science in Population Studies. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2016.

Keywords

Theses - Population Studies.

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