Sexual relationship power and its association with teenage pregnancy among mid adolescents in secondary schools in Kalungu district

Abstract

This study set out to assess the association between sexual relationship power and teenage pregnancy among mid adolescents in secondary school with in Kalungu district. It was prompted by Nakiyingi et al (2009) findings that many mid adolescents in rural areas experience teenage pregnancy not by choice. The study objectives were: explore the level of awareness on sexual relationship power among mid adolescents, establish the sources of information on sexual relationship power among mid adolescents and assess the association of sexual relationship power with teenage pregnancy. The study used a mixed methods research design with both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population was 384 comprising of mid adolescents in secondary schools. A multistage sampling was used to select the schools and systematic sampling was used to choose the mid adolescents (respondents) in secondary schools while 20 key informants were selected using purposive sampling. Data collection methods used included: questionnaire and key informant interview guide. Findings revealed that the key indicators of sexual relationship power among mid adolescents in secondary schools included intimidation by partner and discussion about contraceptives. Some socio demographic characteristics like age, sex and school status were strongly associated to intimidation while sex, school composition and religion were strongly associated to discussion about contraceptives. Recommendations to remove the negative effects of sexual relationship power on the level of teenage pregnancy among mid adolescents in secondary schools are made including empowering mid adolescents in the district with life skills, promoting sexuality education in schools and using modern media in conjunction with school clubs among others.