Determinants of sexual behavior and its effect on academic performance among students of Uganda Martyrs University

Abstract

Context: In this era of HIV and AIDS, issues of sexual activity especially among the young people who are sexually active have become increasingly important. University students are particularly important because they live in a mixed environment but one which is relatively unregulated, which puts them at high risk of risky sexual behaviour. Yet, this group constitutes the future of the nation. This study aimed to establish patterns of sexual behaviour and its determinants among students of Uganda Martyrs University. Objectives: The study was guided by four objectives; to determine the partner of sexual behaviour of Uganda Martyrs University students, to establish the influence of knowledge and attitudes of University students on sexual behaviour, to establish the influence of social demographic factors on sexual behavior and to establish the relationship between sexual behaviour and self-reported academic performance. Methodology: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey, which used both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study data was collected using structured self administered questionnaire, in-depth interviews, key informants interviews and records analysis. The data was collected from fulltime Uganda Martyrs University Students who are fulltime residents on campus and nearby hostels. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS software version1.6 and excel computer programs while qualitative data was also analysed manually. Results: The study found that most students were sexually active, had started having sex before joining university, had multiple sexual partners, were mainly not using condoms and were engaging in sex under the influence of alcohol. The level of knowledge about risks involved in premarital and unprotected sex was very high and it somehow influenced students’ sexual behaviour. Socio-demographic factors such as if the previous school was mixed or single sex, if parents were alive or one was a total orphan and if parents disapproved of premarital sex were associated with sexual behaviour. Religious affiliation was also somehow related with sexual behaviour. Finally, sexual behaviour showed some degree of association with the students’ academic performance. Recommendations: It is suggested for the university to introduce sexual and reproductive health services for students, liaise with faculty of Health Sciences to introduce behaviour change communication clubs and use regulations that deter students from having premarital sex at pleasure. Parents and secondary school head teachers are advised to be more vigilant about children’s sexual behaviour and religious leaders are advised to focus more on behaviour change communication strategies for their members.