USP Electronic Research Repository

Sexual knowledge and attitudes of adolescents in the Cook Islands

Seniloli, Kesaia L. (2002) Sexual knowledge and attitudes of adolescents in the Cook Islands. [Professional and Technical Reports]

Full text not available from this repository.

Abstract

The study examines adolescents' attitudes and behavior in the area of sexuality, fertility and family formation. The aim of the study is to document nationwide information that will contribute to the formation of appropriate policies and effective programs that will address adolescent needs in the area of sexuality, sexual behavior and their consequences. The sample comprised 118 males and 119 females.The distribution reflects the national distribution. A multistage sampling procedure was employed to produce the desired sample size. A questionnaire was administered to each person in the sample. The study showed that young Cook Islanders have little factual information about the menstrual cycle and its significance, the fertile period and pregnancy. Sex education in schools appears to have no impact on the level of awareness of young people. Data also show the low level of young people's knowledge on contraception. It appears schools and parents do very little in this area. There is little communication between young people and parents about contraceptive use and sexual responsibilities. Knowledge about sexually transmitted infection is almost non-existent and this is very worrying. Knowledge for the few who indicated having knowledge of these diseases is superficial.There is much to be done by the Ministry of Health and the Education Department in raising awareness and spreading information in this area. Data show the high level of ignorance on sexual and reproductive health. Many young people consult no-one about their sexual and reproductive issues. Apparently there is no guidance at all in this area from the Church, parents and schools.

Item Type: Professional and Technical Reports
Subjects: H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman
Divisions: Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE) > School of Economics
Depositing User: Kesaia Seniloli
Date Deposited: 11 Feb 2016 03:30
Last Modified: 11 Feb 2016 03:30
URI: http://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/8725
UNSPECIFIED

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item