HIV/AIDS and Children in the English Speaking Caribbean

Sexual behavior of female adolescents on the spread of HIV/AIDS and other STDs in Carriacou

“…Interestingly, in their study, they found that the school was a much more important source of knowledge for female respondents as more than half (51.6%) identified this as their main source of HIV and STD information. Additionally, in another Caribbean study done by Dicks [ 4 ] with Antiguan adolescents found the students received most of their information from within the school setting.…”

“…Schools provide a very important point of access to most adolescents in the Caribbean since over 85% attend elementary and secondary schools. [ 4 ] Additionally, it can be argued that HIV/STDs education through the HFLE program at school is critical for adolescents since it provides them with information before they become sexually active and potentially engage in risky behaviors such as unprotected sex. For adolescents who are already sexually active such education can also help protect them through providing the necessary information and knowledge about where and how to seek help, information, and services such as testing and counseling.…”

“…These were of considerable value in the way they extended knowledge and understanding of behavioral responses to the epidemic. Information from the AIDS Secretariat, 1994 and 1996 as cited by Dicks, [ 4 ] stated that research done in Antigua on AIDS knowledge, attitudes, practices, and behavior suggests the need for HIV intervention programs in the preadolescent and adolescent population. The studies done provided clear evidence of early sexuality.…”