Community perceptions of media influence on adolescent sexual health in, Mutale Municipality of Limpopo Province

Abstract

Adolescent sexual heath is a foundation to the physical emotional health and well-being of families and communities. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the community’s perceptions of media influence on adolescent sexual health in Tshiungani village within Mutale district of Limpopo Province. The research design was qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual in nature. The population comprised of every adult community member or residents of Tshiungani village, the sample was twenty five community members, and data saturation occurred with the twelfth member of the community. Data was collected by means of interviews. A voice recorder was also used to record the interviews. Data was analysed qualitatively using Creswell’s qualitative analysis. Measures to ensure trustworthiness were established by maintaining credibility, dependability, conformability and transformability. The researcher was guided by the ethical principles when conducting the study.Findings revealed that media has both negative and positive influence on adolescent sexuality. Aspects such as bullying, violence, early initiation of sex, dating and pornography were some of negative issues, some pointed positive influence on adolescent sexuality as some health related issues are available such as life skills and other relevant information.

Keywords: Adolescent heath, community, sexual heath, media influences