An investigation into the perceptions of adolescents in KwaDlangezwa Township towards HIV and AIDS

Abstract

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). The HIV and AIDS epidemic is one of the largest obstacles that are destroying the lives and the livelihoods of millions of South Africans. Adolescents are the most vulnerable population at high risk of contracting HIV. Department of Health (2010) noted that in South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is the province with the highest HIV prevalence.
The aims of the study was to explore the perceptions of adolescents living in a township about HIV/AIDS, to explore factors contributing to  adolescents’ high rate of HIV/AIDS infection, to explore the influences of these perceptions on adolescents’ sexual behavior and to explore  adolescents’ general knowledge and understanding of HIV/AIDS. Data collection instrument that was employed is a questionnaire with both open-ended and closed ended questions. Random sampling was employed and 50 participants from Ongoye high school took part in this study with 44% males (n=22) and 56% females (n=28).

Key words: HIV, AIDS, Perception, Adolescents