What Are the Characteristics of Adolescents Who Are ‘Ready for Sex’?: Exploring the Sexual Self-Concepts of Urban Poor Youth in Accra

Adriana A. Biney, University of Ghana
Philomena E. Nyarko, University of Ghana
Delali M. Badasu, University of Ghana

The sexual self-concept (SSC) is linked to one's sexual behavior. Understanding the SSCs of adolescents in urban poor communities – who encounter exacerbated sexual and reproductive health challenges – could lead to a better understanding of their sexual behavior. The study used qualitative and quantitative data from adolescents (12-19 year olds) in Accra. During group discussions, adolescents mentioned poverty, personal choice, media, positive institutions, family and friends as main community sex deterrents and encouragers. Quantitative results showed that females thought they were wrong to have sex compared to males. Also, sexually active adolescents were ready for sex, thought it right to have sex, and enjoyed talking about sex with friends. Age, religion, ethnicity, household wealth, and pre-coital experiences were also significantly related to different SSC items. Thus, appropriate programs and interventions to improve adolescent sexual and reproductive health must target youth according to their differing characteristics and sexual self-concepts.