Original Research

Challenges on sexual health communication with secondary school learners, Limpopo province

Humbulani S. Munyai, Lufuno Makhado, Dorah U. Ramathuba, Rachel T. Lebese
Curationis | Vol 46, No 1 | a2321 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/curationis.v46i1.2321 | © 2023 Humbulani Sarah Munyai, Lufuno Makhado, Dorah Ursula Ramathuba, Rachel Tsakani Lebese | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 01 April 2022 | Published: 19 April 2023

About the author(s)

Humbulani S. Munyai, Department of Advance Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
Lufuno Makhado, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
Dorah U. Ramathuba, Department of Advance Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Science, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
Rachel T. Lebese, Research Office, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa

Abstract

Background: A conversation about sexuality is most likely to encourage healthy and positive sexual practices while reducing risky sexual behaviour among adolescents. Traditionally, sexuality is discussed in hushed tones in proverbs and is reserved for adults. On the other hand, adolescents require to be well informed about their sexuality to assist them to make informed decisions about their sexual behaviour.

Aim: The study determined parents' views regarding challenges of sexual health communication among secondary school learners in Limpopo Province.

Method: A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive, and contextual approach was employed for the study. Fifty-six parents were purposively select, resulting in five focus group discussions that had 8-12 members. One central question was asked, and based on the participants' responses, probing questions asked followed. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness and ethical considerations were ensured.

Results: Three themes, that is communication concerns, role shifting in imparting sexuality education and poor parent-child relationships and eight sub-themes emerged from the data.

Conclusion: Study identified that communication concerns influence parent-child dialogue on sexuality education. Therefore, there is a need to address factors hindering communication like cultural barriers, role shifting in imparting sexuality education, poor parent-child relationships. This study suggests that parents be empowered in dealing with children's sexuality.

Keywords

Parents; Sexuality; Sexuality education; Learner; Parent-Child relationship; Risky sexual behaviours

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