RTI uses cookies to offer you the best experience online. By clicking “accept” on this website, you opt in and you agree to the use of cookies. If you would like to know more about how RTI uses cookies and how to manage them please view our Privacy Policy here. You can “opt out” or change your mind by visiting: http://optout.aboutads.info/. Click “accept” to agree.
Exploring the Intersecting Health Risks of Substance Abuse, Sexual Risk, and Violence for Female South African Teen Dropouts
Sawyer-Kurian, KM., Browne, F., Carney, T., Petersen, P., & Wechsberg, W. (2011). Exploring the Intersecting Health Risks of Substance Abuse, Sexual Risk, and Violence for Female South African Teen Dropouts. Journal of Psychology in Africa, 21(1), 15-25.
The study sought to better understand the cultural contexts of the risks for adolescent females who have dropped out of school. Focus groups were conducted with 37 Black and Coloured females aged 13 to 17 in Cape Town, South Africa. Data were analysed using content analysis. Methamphetamine, cannabis, and alcohol were used by both, however, Black teens also used methaqualone and Coloured teens used heroin and ecstasy. Some teens traded sex for drugs and others did so at the request of their drug-addicted mothers. Teens revealed high rates of violence, including rape, and many myths and barriers about condom use, revealing risky sex behaviours. Conclusion Cultural nuances between the two groups will help inform the adaptation of an HIV prevention intervention
