Perceptions of Risky Sexual Behaviours among University of Cape Coast Female Students.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the risky sexual behaviours of female students in the University of Cape Coast. Exploratory research design was adopted for the study. The study used purposive sampling procedure to select 28 female students within the ages of 19 and 24 years who had been sexually active over a period of time. The study adopted semi-structured interview guide as the data collection instrument and the interview sessions recorded were transcribed in full. In the study, it was revealed that female students were knowledgeable about sexual behaviours acquiring their knowledge about risky sexual behaviours through peer interactions, from traditional media (radio and television), social media and internet as a whole, personal reading and experience as well as from school. Again, it was revealed from the study that most of the respondents perceived their sexual behaviours as risky. Finally, the study showed that the risky sexual behaviours of the respondents were attributed to unplanned nature of sexual intercourse, the fun in sexual activities and the satisfaction derived from the sexual affairs as well as the influence of alcohol. Therefore, the study concluded that female students in the University of Cape Coast engaged in risky sexual behaviours despite their knowledge of the risky sexual behaviours. The researcher recommended that the University Health System as well as other health advocacy agencies should continue the education on proper sexual behaviours among young people.