Assessing Perspectives, Attitudes, and Awareness Toward Sex Education among High School Students in the Volta Region of Ghana-Implications for Social Work

Abstract

Comprehensive sexuality education is a critical reproductive health tool in helping adolescents take control of their bodies to overcome unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. However, Ghanaian culture, taboos, and myths continue to undermine its successful implementation, creating a knowledge gap in sexuality and reproductive health matters. The study examined the perspectives, attitudes, and knowledge of in-school adolescents about sex education and sexuality matters to enhance the importance of sex education in reducing adolescent pregnancy and improving reproductive health issues. A quantitative approach and descriptive research design were employed for the study. The study involved 144 adolescents aged 15 to 18 years from the Adaklu district of the Volta region in Ghana. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection, and the data were analyzed. The study's findings revealed that 86% of the students support sex education; 56% argue that it should start in secondary school, while 52% agree that it should begin at home. However, 48% were against sex education commencing in primary school. Moreover, 53% believe sex education prevents unwanted pregnancies, and 44% who had ever had sexual encounters feared pregnancy. The students lacked knowledge of sexuality and reproductive health issues and were negatively affected by the culture and taboos in their communities. Comprehensive sex education should begin from the upper primary, and parents should be trained to help educate their children at home.