Assessment of HIV and AIDS Psychosocial Competences on Youth Sexual Behaviour in Mbulu and Mufindi Districts, Tanzania

Youth are among the vulnerable population for contracting HIV and AIDS. Their sexual behaviour risks increase when they have inadequate psychosocial competences. Using a cross sectional study design, psychosocial competences for HIV and AIDS prevention and sexual behaviour were assessed among both in and out of school youth respondents aged 15 - 35 years in Mbulu and Mufindi districts. Data was collected through Questionnaire, focus group discussions with the youth, in depth interviews with parents, social workers and government officials at Ward levels. Non participant observation was also used. The study evaluated the types of sexual behaviour risks for HIV and AIDS infection, assessed the psychosocial competences for HIV and AIDS prevention among youth and determined the impact of psychosocial competences on youth sexual behaviour. Data was analysed using SPSS software. Significant differences were found among the youth in engagement into risk sexual behaviour and in decision making ability. Female had low decision making ability compared to male youth in the study areas. Self awareness was high among male and female youth however social support for HIV prevention was inadequate in the study areas. Multiple regression analysis indicated that age was a common predictor for sexual behaviour in the study areas. Attitudes and beliefs had significant positive impact on youth sexual behaviour in Mufindi while religion had positive significant impact on youth sexual behaviour in Mbulu. Based on the findings youth involved into risk sexual behaviour and they had inadequate psychosocial competences for HIV and AIDS prevention. Action should be taken to formulate and finance youth programmes that aim to train and impart psychosocial competences for HIV and AIDS prevention