Abstract
M.Ed.
This research is undertaken as a reaction against the rapid spread of HIV-infection in South Africa. It is apparent that the majority of people, including secondary school adolescent learners in the North West Province still engage in sexual practices and attitudes that fan the situation.
In order to develop and implement successful prevention strategies such as guidelines for secondary schools, it is important to examine existing knowledge about HIV/AIDS and current behaviour, as well as to investigate and identify the factors that may influence behaviours that may lead to contracting HIV/AIDS. The literature review identified several psychosocial and cognitive factors associated with high-risk behaviours among adolescents in secondary schools. For example, adolescents with higher educational aspirations are less likely to engage in sexual behaviour and alcohol and drug abuse.
As a cognitive factor, knowledge is not necessarily sufficient to change high-risk behaviour; further, the social influence of peers can have an impact on adolescent sexual and other high-risk behaviours that may result in HIV infection. In addition, it is important to examine the cross-cultural relevance of these psychosocial factors and other factors related to the high-risk behaviours that fuel the spread of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
In this research study, the semi-structured interviews were conducted with educators, learners and parents at three different secondary schools in the Bojanala region of North West Province. During the interviews, ethical measures were adhered to and steps were taken to ensure trustworthiness. The data collected was analysed, interpreted and discussed.
The findings were interpreted with respect to the aims stated in the first chapter of the research study. The findings revealed that there has been disconnectedness between parents and educators, and that learners have been taking advantage of the situation. Parents have been outside the process of teaching their children about sex-related matters, including HIV/AIDS.
The recommendations from this study were made with specific reference to the educators, learners and parents. Guidelines were provided, according to themes and categories, and it was recommended that community agencies and organisations should assist the parents and educators in the effort to stop the spread of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Dr. M.C. van Loggerenberg