HIV and AIDS knowledge among adolescents with hearing impairment in some special schools in Ghana

Abstract

This study examined the knowledge levels of adolescents with Special Educational Needs and Disability on HIV and AIDS in Ghana. The study specifically explored the views of persons with hearing impairment in 4 special schools. A mixed method approach was adopted for the study. The study suggests that most adolescents in special schools across the country had limited knowledge about the modes of HIV and AIDS transmission. They held a wide array of misconceptions which influenced their attitude and sexual behaviours. The study recommends urgent steps to appropriately educate and re-educate these adolescents on the twin menace of HIV and AIDS, particularly the modes of transmission. Strict supervision of students’ activities particularly their social lives should be paramount to school authorities since there was evidence that respondents had many opportunities to engage in multiple sexual encounters in schools.

Keywords: Knowledge, Hearing Impairment, Adolescents, HIV/AIDS.