The role of cultural proverbs and myths in shaping sexual worldviews of adolescents in Botswana: evidence from an HIV/STD prevention research study

Abstract

The literature has shown that adolescents are exposed to socio-cultural activities that put them at risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. To develop effective intervention strategies and programs, it is imperative to understand how the cultural proverbs and myths create sexual norms and shape the worldview of adolescents. The findings indicate that some cultural proverbs and myths negatively influence adolescents hence expose them to risky sexual behaviors.

Keywords: Adolescents; HIV and AIDS; cultural proverbs; risk behaviors.