APPRAISING KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF TEENAGERS TOWARDS SEX EDUCATION AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ONDO STATE

This study investigates the knowledge and attitudes of teenage secondary school students toward sex education in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Recognizing the high prevalence of teenage pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and misinformation among adolescents, the study examines how effectively sex education is being delivered and perceived in this culturally conservative region. The study is guided by the Health Belief Model, which frames adolescents' sexual behavior around perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, and barriers. The research design employed was descriptive survey, with data collected from 240 students across five communities using a validated questionnaire. Findings reveal that while students demonstrate a relatively high level of knowledge about sex education; including topics like contraception, safe sex, and STIs, their understanding is often clouded by misconceptions. Many believe myths such as withdrawal being a reliable contraceptive method or that pregnancy cannot occur during first-time intercourse. Despite this, students showed positive attitudes toward sex education, agreeing it is important for informed decision-making and sexual health management. However, they also emphasized the need for the inclusion of both abstinence and contraceptive education rather than abstinence-only approaches. The study also highlights the significant influence of cultural, religious, and societal norms on students’ attitudes and the effectiveness of sex education delivery. In many cases, teachers feel unprepared or constrained by societal taboos, resulting in superficial delivery of the curriculum. Parents also often avoid conversations about sex, leaving adolescents to seek information from peers or unreliable sources. These gaps contribute to a cycle of misinformation and risky behaviors among teenagers, despite national policies that support comprehensive sex education. The study concludes by recommending targeted interventions such as improved teacher training, parental involvement, culturally sensitive curriculum delivery, and open dialogue within schools and communities. These measures are essential for equipping adolescents with the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to make informed sexual health decisions, thereby reducing the incidence of STIs, teenage pregnancies, and other negative outcomes in Akoko South West and similar communities.