Perceptions of Sexuality Amongst Evangelical Pentecostal Nigerian University Students

BACKGROUND: HIV continues to be a priority sexual and public health issue in Sub-Saharan African. Although significant progress has been made in preventing HIV infection, HIV incidence rates in Africa remain high. The most widely cited prevention program in Africa has been the “Abstain, Be Faithful, Use Condoms” (ABC) HIV prevention method. In order to reduce HIV rates more effectively we first must understand how sexual behaviors that may contribute to HIV infection are understood and accepted in social and cultural contexts. Furthermore, though a “one-size-fits-all” approach has traditionally been utilized, investigating these perceptions of sexuality amongst specific segments of the population may help influence tailored interventions that achieve better results.

METHODS: This study utilized a mixed-methods design. The first stage of research included an ethnographic study conducted at a private Evangelical Pentecostal University in Southern Nigeria. The resulting data from this stage was used to design a quantitative survey that was administered to students at the University in order to provide a descriptive summary of students' perceptions.

RESULTS: Both the ethnographic data and survey data provided insights into a community that has been understudied. Results from this study include: conflicts between personal beliefs and attitudes and religious doctrine, desire for increased access to sexuality education, and refined insights of the definitions and contextual meanings of various sexuality topics.

CONCLUSIONS: Further research must be done to understand the conflicting views between personal beliefs and attitudes and religious doctrine, and the impact this may have on personal sexual behaviors.