Exploration of premarital sexual behaviour of female students in senior high schools in the West Mamprusi Municipality of North East region, Ghana

Abstract

This study explores the premarital sexual behaviour of female students in senior high schools in the West Mamprusi Municipality of North East Region, Ghana. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. The population of the study estimated at 4520 comprised female students in senior high schools in the West Mamprusi Municipality of North East Region of Ghana. Sample sizes of ninety (90) students were selected using stratified sampling technique from General Arts and Home Economics Classes. The research instrument used for the study is self-designed questionnaire which has both closed and open ended questions. Content validity was estimated through expert judgment. Reliability of the instrument was ascertained through test-retest method and a Chronbach alpha coefficient of 0.87 was obtained. Data collected were analysed using frequency, table, percentage, mean, pie chart and bar graph. The results of the study showed that the practice of premarital sex is very high among the students who engage in the act. The frequency in the practice of premarital sex is very high and is almost part of the weekly routine of majority of these students. The study recommended among others that schools in the West Mamprusi Municipality should have functioning guidance and counselling units that should carry out comprehensive sex education in line with the Ghanaian culture.