Parental Guidance and Children Sexual Behaviour in Namibia: A Case Study in Windhoek

This study is based on quantitative data collected from 347 school children in grades 8, 9 and 10 from three high schools in Windhoek, Namibia. Three schools were randomly selected from three strata (that is; one from low fees, another from medium fees and the last from high fees schools). This was done in order to accommodate children from different financial background. The main objective of the study was to identify the factors associated with early sexual activity by school children. The specific objectives were: (1) to examine the role parental guidance and values play in children sexual behaviour, (2) examine the role of peer pressure and self-control in children sexual behaviour, (3) investigate, whether children apply their knowledge to protect themselves from risky behaviour and (4) examine family backgrounds of school children and its influence on their sexual behaviour. Among the 347 children from ages 13 to 18, sixty-four (18.4%) had experienced sexual intercourse and the majority of these were male. The effect of peer pressure was significant in those 18.4% children, who were already sexually active. Findings suggest that parental guidance, support, and supervision were significantly (and adversely) related to the early sexual activity. Chi-square and regression analysis revealed that parental guidance, support and supervision might play a major role in deterring and delaying first sexual inter-course among children. Children who were supported, cared, and guided by their parents had their first sexual experience at an older age.