SEXUALLY ACTIVE COLLEGE STUDENTS’: KNOWLEDGEABLE ON SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS BUT WHY THEY ARE RISKING IT WITH THEIR SEXUAL BEHAVIORS?

Abstract

Given the massive campaign and information dissemination regarding sexually transmitted infections, the number of cases having HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections is still increasing at an alarming rate. It is observed by the researchers that individuals, especially teenagers engage in sexual practices without even considering its dangerous effects. This study aimed to determine why college students engage in sexual risky behaviors in spite of being educated with regards to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A qualitative research design is utilized through case study approach among sexually active college students through snowball sampling. The data was then gathered through in-depth interview via guided questions. Ethical consideration was observed due to the sensitive, personal, and intimate nature of the interview. Result of the study showed that among the sexually active college students the feeling of pleasure was mainly the reason why they indulge in sexual intercourse, exposing themselves to risky sexual act. All of the study participants had multiple partners; had used contraceptive (condoms); had risky sexual history and had been knowledgeable about STIs. The case analysis revealed that the sexually active college students knew about the importance of prevention, but only one participant used contraceptive during sexual act. The participants admitted ‘throwing caution to the wind’ due to perceived pleasure, feelings of love, curiosity and combined with alcohol and prohibited drugs in some of these encounters. There were three emerging theme that came out from the narratives namely; sexually active college students are susceptible due to inadequate knowledge regarding STI’s; some had high knowledge but susceptible due to risky sexual behaviors while there were participants, who were sexually knowledgeable and careful. It is recommended that students should be required to participate in more interactive seminars or events that talks openly about their thoughts with regards to sex; sexually transmitted infections and awareness on the dangers of STIs through some risky sexual practices.