Sexual and reproductive knowledge, attitudes and behaviours in a school going population of Sri Lankan adolescents

RAJAPAKSA-HEWAGEEGANA, Neelamani, PIERCY, Hilary, SALWAY, Sarah and SAMARAGE, Sarath (2015). Sexual and reproductive knowledge, attitudes and behaviours in a school going population of Sri Lankan adolescents. Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare, 6 (1), 3-8.

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Abstract

The reproductive and sexual health of adolescents is an important health concern and a focus of global attention. In Sri Lanka, a lack of understanding about adolescent reproductive and sexual health needs is a matter of national concern. A survey was undertaken to examine the sexual knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of school going adolescents in Sri Lanka. A random sample of schools was selected from one district. Data were collected by a self-completion questionnaire and analysed using SPSS. Response rate was 90%. 2020 pupils (26% boys, 74% girls) aged 16-19 years (mean = 16.9) participated, the majority Singhalese (97%). Most reported a good parent-child relationship (88%). A minority (34%) discussed sexual issues with parents. Health professionals were the preferred source of sexual information (32%) rather than parents (12.5%) or friends (5.6%). Less than 1% demonstrated satisfactory sexual and reproductive knowledge levels. 1.7% were sexually active (30 boys vs 5 girls), the majority with same age partners. 57% used contraception at first intercourse. There is an imperative to address the lack of sexual and reproductive knowledge. A minority of school going adolescents become sexually active. These individuals are potentially vulnerable and services need to be developed to meet their needs.

Item Type:	Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:	Centre for Health and Social Care Research
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.srhc.2014.08.001
Page Range:	3-8
Depositing User:	Hilary Piercy
Date Deposited:	27 Nov 2014 12:18
Last Modified:	18 Mar 2021 13:48
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/8775

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