The influence of Christian and Traditional cultural moral values on Adolescent Sexuality in the Mfanteman Municipality

Résumé

This research examines the interplay between traditional Ghanaian culture, Christianity, and youth sexual behavior, with a specific emphasis on teenage pregnancy within the Mfanteman Municipality of Ghana’s Central Region. Although Christianity and African traditional culture are widely considered strong moral frameworks, particularly for sexual conduct, adolescent pregnancy remains prevalent in the region. This paradox raises significant questions regarding the efficacy of religious and cultural ethical systems in shaping adolescent sexual behavior. The study applied Immanuel Kant’s deontological ethical theory, which emphasizes ethical responsibilities and compliance with moral standardsirrespective ofconsequences. Methodologically, the research employed an interpretivist framework and a case study approach to investigate the personal experiences and ethical perspectives of adolescents and community leaders. Primary data was gathered using semi-structured interviews and surveys administered to adolescents, pregnant teenagers, teenage mothers, parents, traditional leaders, spiritual leaders, and Pastors in the municipality. The findings indicate that Christian and African traditional ethical norms strongly condemn premarital sex and adolescent pregnancy. These norms reinforce each other through common principles, such as chastity, collective accountability and religious penalties. However, the research reveals that the effectiveness of these moral frameworks is reduced by ineffective communication, parental supervision, insufficient sexual health education, economic and social pressures, and conflicting sexual information from peer groups and media. Young people often develop conflicting moral perspectives, where personal convictions coexist with hidden sexual behaviors. The research suggests that preventing teenage pregnancy and risky sexual activity requires not only moral and cultural guidance but also mentorship, comprehensive sex education, and socio-economic support.

Citer ce document

Accès au document

Texte intégral en lecture en ligne, réservé aux abonnés SPHAERO et aux membres de l'institution. Se connecter

Auteur(s)

Statistiques

Consultations : 1

Téléchargements : 0