Self-awareness life skills and risky sexual behaviours among primary schools adolescents in Tanzania

What is it about?

Self-awareness is a crucial life skill, yet its role in shaping adolescent sexual behaviour remains unclear. We show for the first time how, even among primary school adolescents, where risky sexual behaviours are assumed to be minimal, self-awareness influences risk recognition but not actual behaviour. Our study of 400 adolescents in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, found that while most understood sexual risks, engagement in risky behaviours remained low, with higher prevalence among males and younger adolescents. These findings highlight the need for targeted programs that enhance self-awareness, equipping adolescents with the skills to navigate sexual health challenges effectively.

Featured Image