Research article summary (published 30 May 2009):

HIV education in South African schools: the dilemma and conflicts of educators.

Full Abstract

AIMS: Educators within the school system are well placed to facilitate the dissemination of knowledge and skills in order for adolescents to be equipped for appropriate sexual decision-making. The aim of this research was to provide an understanding of educators' beliefs, attitudes and behaviours with regard to sexual and reproductive health promotion. METHODS: Individual interviews were conducted with 15 educators from demographically diverse high schools in the Western Cape. One-off interviews were conducted with Grade 8 Life Orientation educators and principals. The interviews were audio-recorded, with one exception. The resulting data were analysed using the qualitative computer package NVivo, as well as the grounded theory method. RESULTS: The findings indicate that many educators are conflicted about HIV and sex education, as they perceive it as contradicting their values and beliefs. The overwhelming majority was in support of the promotion of abstinence, but felt personally challenged in teaching safe sex practices. CONCLUSIONS: The impact of broader socioeconomic factors on education was noted, such as the dysfunctional homes of learners, poor role models, inadequate life-skills, violence, and crime. The findings highlight the need for a comprehensive approach towards sexual health intervention programmes that is sensitive to the cultural and social context in which it is developed and implemented.

Author information

Author/s: Ahmed, Nazeema (N); Flisher, Alan J (AJ); Mathews, Catherine (C); Mukoma, Wanjiru (W); Jansen, Shahieda (S);

Affiliation: Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa. nazeema.ahmed(-atsign-)uct.ac.za

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Scandinavian journal of public health (Scand J Public Health), published in Sweden. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Jun; vol 37 Suppl 2 (issue ) : pp 48-54

Dates: Created 2009/06/04; Completed 2009/10/08;

PMID: 19493981, status: MEDLINE (last retrieved date: 10/8/2009)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MeSH Headings (categories) shown below.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - epidemiology; prevention & control Adolescent Adolescent Behavior Adult Conflict (Psychology) Female HIV Infections - epidemiology; prevention & control Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice Humans

Intervention Studies Male Questionnaires Schools Sex Education Sexual Behavior Socioeconomic Factors South Africa - epidemiology Teaching

Note: Bold headings indicate primary MeSH headings or qualifiers.

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