Factors influencing consistency of condom use among college students in Durban, South Africa.
Loading...
Date
2019
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Condoms remain the only method that provides dual protection against sexually transmitted
diseases (including HIV/AIDS) and unplanned pregnancy. For a long time, condoms have
been regarded as one of the most effective and practical methods of dual protection. In a
country like South Africa with a high HIV prevalence, condoms have an important role to
play in curbing the further spread of AIDS. Recent estimates suggest that approximately 7.5
million South Africa are living with HIV/AIDS. The aim of this study is to shed more light
on consistency condom use among young students drawing on quantitative data from a selfadministered survey consisting of close-ended questions. This study contributes to existing
knowledge by investigating consistent condom use among a young segment of the
population. The survey consisted of a sample of 230 students, with 57.4% of the sample
being females and males being 42.6%. This study draws on the health belief model (BHM)
to better understand condom use consistency. This model was selected because it uses
behavioural components to explain low levels of consistent condom use.
The findings of the study show that almost half of sample have ever had sexual intercourse.
Men were more likely than women to report having sexual intercourse. The majority of the
participants were Africans. The study found that 49.44% students under 20 years and 56%
students aged 20 years and above used a condom at their first sexual encounter. Furthermore,
almost half of the sexually active men and women used a condom the first time they had
sexual intercourse. Condom use at last sexual encounter was much higher. In general,
attitudes to condom is relatively positive but there are some barriers to consistent condom
use. The study confirmed that the rates of condom use are low on the first sexual intercourse
because young people are usually unprepared for the event and in most cases, it is unplanned.
Consistent condom use remains a challenge among young men and women and more effort is
needed to address some of the negative attitudes about condoms.
Description
Masters Degree, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.