The relationship between self-esteem and sexual risk-taking behaviours among adolescent students in Tanzania

Abstract

This paper quantitatively assessed the relationship between self-esteem and sexual risk-taking behaviours among adolescents. The study employed a correlation design, using a questionnaire for data collection. A total of 511 students participated in this study. The data was analysed using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. Results showed no significant relationship between self-esteem and sexual debut (r =.081, p > 0.05), self-esteem and safe sex (r =.081, p > 0.05) and a weak positive relationship between self-esteem and multiple partners (r =.033, p .470). This implies that self-esteem did not influence sexual risk-taking behaviours. The study recommends for a related study using a qualitative approach to explore the role of other socio-cultural aspects that can influence adolescents to be involved in sexual risk-taking behaviours.