The sexual behaviour and reproductive health of young people in developing countries have attracted considerable attention over the last 15 years; youth constitute a large proportion of the population in these countries and are disproportionately affected by HIV and other negative reproductive health outcomes (MacCauley and Salter, 1995).

Recent trends in adolescents’ reproductive health and fertility-related behaviours include earlier sexual debut, a greater number of sexual partners, increased involvement in non-dating sexual experiences high rates of unplanned pregnancy, and premature parenthood. Thus, the need to understand the movable factors that can result in a decrease in sexual risk is critical. One fruitful approach is to focus on the interplay of adolescents’ self concept, peer group influence, emotional mastery and social support that may influence sexual decision-making.

Research throughout much of Africa indicates that the first sexual experiences of todayʼs young people are taking place in a different social context from those of previous generations (Friedman, 1992). Pillai, Achola and Barton (1993) observe that increasing urbanization, modernization and education, together with exposure to western media, appear to have led to a decline in traditional values and, in particular, to have reduced the importance of virginity at marriage. Evidences suggest that parental control and authority over young people are declining and that adolescents are no longer willing-or required - to be accountable to the societal structures that formerly controlled and informed their sexual behaviour (Letamo and Bainame, 1997).