Browsing by Author "Amadi, Ugochinyere Dominica"

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    In-school sex education and sexual health knowledge, attitudes and behaviours among adolescents in Owerri North LGA, Imo State
    (Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2022-02) Amadi, Ugochinyere Dominica
    This study investigates sex education and sexual health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among in-school adolescents in Owerri North Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria. Sexual health education plays a vital role in shaping adolescents' understanding and behaviours towards sex. In Owerri North Local Government Area (LGA), Imo State, Nigeria, the effectiveness of in-school sex education has been insufficiently studied. This research aims to evaluate adolescents’ sexual health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours in the region. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 386 adolescents aged 10-19 years from public, private, and mission-owned secondary schools. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire to assess sexual health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours. Results showed that 206(53.4%) of adolescents correctly identified that condoms could help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), while 189(49.0%) held misconceptions about the curability of genital warts and herpes. Additionally, 200(52%) of respondents reported engaging in sexual activity, with 86(22.3%) having 4 or more partners in the past 12 months. Despite moderate levels of knowledge, significant gaps persisted in areas such as contraceptive use and STI prevention. Statistical analyses using the Friedman test and chi-square tests revealed no significant differences in knowledge levels based on demographic factors, though gender differences were marginally significant in some attitudes, such as the importance of open communication about sex (p = 0.008). In conclusion, to address knowledge gaps and promote healthier sexual behaviours, the study recommends enhancing comprehensive sex education programs, improving parental involvement, and providing greater access to youth friendly sexual health services.