Browsing by Author "Samweli, Tumaini"

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    The influence of gender based socialization on HIV/AIDS prevention among young people in Magugu community.
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2005) Samweli, Tumaini
    The purpose of this study was to investigate influences of gender based socialization on HIV/AIDS prevention among young people in Magugu Community. The study was conducted among 170 respondents in four out of seven villages in Magugu Community, Babati District in Manyara Region. Stratified, simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to obtain the sample. Data collection involved questionnaires, individual in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and documentary review. The analytical framework employed a content analysis technique. Mean scores, standard deviation, chi- square and independent t-test were computed and tests of significance were employed to confirm any differences between groups of respondents. It was found that the general level of knowledge of young people about HIV/AIDS prevention was moderate. Tests of significance performed on difference between females and males in sources of information about HIV/AIDS prevention and HIV/AIDS knowledge levels of education were not significant. Young people were socialized to participate in sex-typed activities. Thus, they were found to be exposed to social pressure from their families and other socialization agents such as schools, peers, and religious groups. As a result, young people were influenced by HIV risk behaviours such as polygamy and casual sex as well as HIV preventive behaviours such as abstinence and condom use. However, life style was reported to have changed in Magugu community. Poverty, population mobility and traditional practices were factors identified to hinder young people from protecting themselves as well as others against HIV infection. It has also been revealed that for any HIV/AIDS intervention to succeed, the inner culture of gender based socialization in people’s life setting is a very important background component that must be set right before one embarks on the respective HIV/AIDS intervention. It is suggested that in order to promote young people’s behaviour in HIV/AIDS prevention, there is a need to establish various approaches towards preventive measures of HIV/AIDS infection. These include provision of peer education, promoting behavioral change communication, establishing VCT centers and providing livelihood skills as well as life skills.