Transactional sex among female university students in Ghana: Implications for HIV in Higher Education. Issue 6 (20th August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Amo-Adjei, Joshua; Kumi-Kyereme, Akwasi; Tuoyire, Derek Anamaale
• Editors: Weare, Katherine
• Is Part Of: Health education. Volume 114:Issue 6(2014)
• Publication Date: 2014-08-20
• Subjects: Health education -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 613.071
• DOI: 10.1108/HE-02-2014-0013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0965-4283

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: Purpose – This paper examines transactional sexual relationships among female students of University of Cape Coast, Ghana, and the implications for HIV education in institutions of higher learning. Design/methodology/approach: Methods – Using snowballing, 40 females students engaged in transactional sex were interviewed using unstructured interview. The data was analysed in a thematic and progressive manner based on Ritchie and Spencer's (1994) model Findings: Findings – The findings suggest that although young women are motivated by economic attractions, initiating and sustaining transactional sex went beyond economic considerations. Of note, from this study, was the finding that some young females considered their partners as more like 'father figures' but found sexual intercourse with them as non-incestuous. The father-daughter nature of the relationships as recounted was manifested largely at the decision-making interface and this reduces their abilities to negotiate for safe sex practices. Specific wants at peculiar time also shaped negotiations Originality/value: These findings show that the so-called 'privilege' status' that higher education offers may be derailed by socioeconomic and cultural exigencies of transactional sex. This has the potential of making female youths compromise on safer sexual practices and thus, rendering them vulnerable to STIs and particularly, HIV infection.