The Perception Of Hiv / Aids And Its Implications For Sexual Behaviour Among Undergraduate Students At Maseno University Campus, Moi University.

Abstract

This is a study on the Perception of HIV/AIDS and its implication for Sexual Behaviour among Undergraduate Students of Maseno University College. It is based on the fact that, despite the Governments efforts to curb HIV/AIDS prevalence, for over a decade, the prevalence is still escalating. Hence need to investigate the perception of HIV/AIDS and Sexual behaviour focussing on the University Students as a model of young adults. This is because the most affected group of people with HIV/AIDS ranges between 18 and 34 years of age. The focus on one's sexual behaviour is because the main mode of HIV/AIDS transmission is through sexual intercourse. This being the case in Kenya, and other developing countries. The study investigated 100 respondents, half of whom were males and half were females. This sample population was further divided by the year of study thus 2:3 ratio of the population representing the males and females in first and third years of study respectively. The data was collected through both formal and informal methods of data collection namely, interview schedules, observation and discussing with some members of the society in question. Analysis of the data was done through both the descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The Crosstabullation and correlation coeffeciency were used in the analysis. Frequencies and Percentages were also used to establish patterns of relationship, with some the data presented in form of tables. The theory of cognitive dissonance was employed in the theoretical framework. The study revealed significant relationships between : V' Condom availability and condom procurement, 2. Sex of condom seller and condom procurement, v Protected sex and duration of relationship, Knowledge of the partner's past sexual experiences and communication between partners, and finally, Student’s financial resources and his/her risk behaviour