This study utilises a qualitative approach to elicit the reproductive
health concerns of girls at a Christian summer camp with a view to
making recommendations on how to improve the content and process of
future sessions. The girls asked questions anonymously about various
aspects of their sexuality, which were analysed to identify emergent
themes. There were 75 participants with ages ranging from childhood to
late adolescence (7-21 years). The different levels of cognitive
development are clearly illustrated in the types of questions asked.
The late adolescents focused on coping with relationships and demands
for sex. The early and middle adolescents focused on their feelings,
relationships, menstruation and breast size. Those in childhood (7-11
years) appeared totally ignorant about parts of their body. Myths and
misconceptions were identified in all age groups. Future sessions
should address the peculiar needs of these different age groups.
Christian and other religious groups should work with health educators
to develop realistic teaching guidelines that focus on the everyday
concerns of the youth. (Afr J Reprod Health 2004; 8[3]:27-37
