Ibadan Journal of the Social Sciences
Volume 3, No. 2, 2005
Pages 77-87
DOI: 10.36108/ijss/5002.30.0270
Gender Differences in Experience of Sexual Coercion, HIV Risky Sexual Practices, and Knowledge of Aids among Fresh Undergraduates at a Nigerian University
B.D. Olley
Department of Psychology, University of Ibadan
Abstract
The study examined gender differences in knowledge about HIVIAIDS, sexual violation, and risk)’ sexual practices among new undergraduates of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. One hundred and eighty sexually-active fresh undergraduates, who attended a routine orientation program for new entrants participated. They were assessed using a 93-item questionnaire on sexual violation: rape or child sexual abuse (CSA), past and recent sexual practices, and knowledge of HIV/AIDS. Results showed that 65.5% of males and 34.5% of females were sexually active. The lifetime prevalence of rape and CSA was 18.9% and 10%, respectively. In addition, female students were significantly more likely to have had history of rape and CSA with a non-family member than male students. In addition, CSA was more likely to have been perpetrated by a family member in male students. While males were more likely not to have used a condom at the last sex, females were significantly more likely to have exchanged sex for drugs and a place to stay. Male students reported significantly better HIV knowledge relating to precautionary measures (e.g., condom use) than females. The results suggest that although many new students were sexually naïve, substantial proportions. who were sexually active engaged in unsafe sex, The potential role of CSA in risky sexual practices among females, in particular; should be noted. It is suggested that sex education should be a critical component of an orientation program for new university students.