Psychosocial influences on adolescent sexuality and identity in rural Kenya

Abstract

This article examines the influence of psychosocial factors on adolescent sexuality and identity in Kenya. It focuses on male circumcision, peer and parental relationships. The article is based on a study which investigated factors influencing access and utilisation of preventive reproductive health services by adolescents in Murang’a District, Kenya. Structured interviews were conducted with 113 inschool adolescents. Findings show that they lacked understanding about circumcision and maturation on physical changes they experienced. They yielded to negative peer pressure because of myths and threats following circumcision, fear of alienation, feeling like outcasts, and desire for acceptance. Despite this, adolescents were reluctant to share their sexual health concerns with their parents because of fear of parents’ suspicion.

Psychosocial influences on adolescent sexuality and identity in rural Kenya.