Title: Relationship Between Risky Sexual Behaviour And Academic Achievement Among Secondary School Students In Wakiso Town Council.
Authors: Boonabaana Caroline, Dr. Leon Mataagi, Babirye Eunice, Musisi Moses
Volume: 8
Issue: 10
Pages: 41-49
Publication Date: 2024/10/28
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the interconnection between risky sexual conduct and academic performance among secondary school students in Wakiso Town Council through a quantitative cross-sectional research design employing regression analysis on a sample of 400 students. The findings demonstrated that risky sexual behavior, defined as unprotected sex or multiple sexual partners, was prevalent among the students as indicated by regression results showing that age, gender, socioeconomic status, peer influence and media exposure significantly predicted engagement in such conduct. Specifically, older students (? = 0.045, p = 0.013), males (? = 0.21, p = 0.037), those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds (? = -0.03, p = 0.049), and individuals more susceptible to peer pressure (? = 0.15, p = 0.013) or exposed to media (? = 0.065, p = 0.003) were likely to participate in such conduct. Regarding academic achievement, the average grade point average was found to be 3.2 out of 5. Regression analyses indicated attendance rates (? = 0.028, p = 0.002), study hours (? = 0.045, p = 0.001), parental support (? = 0.186, p = 0.017) and peer motivation (? = 0.098, p = 0.045) significantly associated with performance. Notably, when analyzing the relationship between variables, risky sexual behaviors strongly negatively correlated with academic outcomes (? = -0.327, p < 0.001), perhaps due to associated distractions, stress and absenteeism. Study engagement (? = 0.246, p = 0.001) and emotional well-being (? = 0.198, p = 0.021) positively correlated with achievement. Specifically, older students, males, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and individuals more susceptible to peer pressure or exposed to media were likely to involve themselves in risky sexual activities. The academic achievement levels of students were also assessed through regression, with attendance rates, study hours, parental support and peer motivation significantly associated with performance, underscoring the importance of engagement in education for success. Most notably, when evaluating the relationship between risky sexual behaviors and academic outcomes, regression analyses revealed a substantial negative correlation wherein increased involvement in risky sex strongly predicted poorer performance, perhaps due to associated distractions, stress and absenteeism. Additionally, study engagement and emotional well-being positively correlated with achievement while age and gender did not demonstrate significant direct impacts. Based on these findings, comprehensive sexual education programs and parent/guardian involvement initiatives were recommended to curb risky behavior and simultaneously promote scholastic commitment. Peer mentorship, extracurricular participation and addressing socioeconomic barriers through assistance were also suggested to cultivate a supportive environment nurturing healthy decisions and reducing academic impediments.