Abstinence An African Child's Perspective

In the African clime, abstinence for the growing child is perceived from three perspectives, religious, moral, and peer views. We'll take a breakdown of each as we delve into this discussion. 

Firstly…

WHAT IS SEXUAL ABSTINENCE 

It is specifically the act of abstaining from all forms of sexual activity, be it penetrative, oral, foreplay or romance for a specified period (time frame or until marriage).

WHAT IS THE AFRICAN'S CHILD VIEW ON ABSTINENCE? 

Her view centers largely on the three viewpoints mentioned above, and his/her decisions about sexual involvement and activity are influenced respectively by those factors from an early age.

THE RELIGIOUS FACTOR  

The African child's religion is divided heavily between Christianity, Islam, and traditionalists. Christianity taking a large chunk of that population, followed not so close by Islam and spiraling traditionalists, in that order. 

In all three of these religions, sexual practice before marriage is not encouraged for its adherents, it is considered a sin and an abomination before the sight of their God. Hence a child grows up with the fear of sinning against God and bringing punishment upon one's self.

ADHERENCE TO THIS FACTOR

For most children, as they grow older, keep these various commandments and adhere strictly to them, abstaining at all cost, though difficult, but with the promise of reward at the end if they see it through, and fear of punishment if they defer. Hence they remain virgins till they are legally and properly married. 

DEVIATION OF THESE FACTOR

On the other hand, most children care less about what they have been taught by these religious/ traditional leaders and to a large extent their parents, they go ahead and indulge In various sexual activities regardless, largely due to peer pressure and the wrong associations. 

THE VERDICT 

A lot of African teenagers adhere to the tenets of their religion and thereby abstain completely, for some they abstain partially, while for others they indulge explicitly.

THE MORAL FACTOR 

For other teenagers, it's a moral conviction, more like a personal decision not to "defile" themselves as they put it. Could also be for complete focus on a set goal, and determination to do something different from their peers (as it gives them a certain kind of fulfillment). Avoidance of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) amongst others. 

THE PEER FACTOR 

This is the biggest determinant amongst these factors, as regardless of religious or moral reasons, a majority of teenagers as well as adults indulge along the line as a result of influence from their peers. This could be in the form of a romantic relationship, experimenting, curiosity as well as intimidation from friends on being not "exposed" as they put it. 

A lot of children and teenagers indulge not necessarily for the actual "fun" of it (although some do), most do it to "fit in" with the peer structure created by their friends as a mode of acceptance into that perceived circle.

This way the spiral continues, most get pregnant, contact STDs, are raped, and a whole lot more. 

WHY ABSTINENCE?

Why abstinence? a curious teenager might ask.

Abstinence for obvious reasons helps in the prevention of unwanted pregnancies to an extent, as well as the spread of various STDs amongst other benefits. 

For the spiritually (religious) inclined it offers a form of devotion and service to a higher being, it encourages a sense of pride in oneself, a great feeling of accomplishment, which breeds focus, perseverance, and determination. All these are positive traits. 

EFFECTS OF EARLY EXPOSURE TO SEX

FOR THE AFRICAN CHILD 

As puberty hits, it is commonplace for young adults to want to explore their bodies, which leads to experimenting and trying out various things as encouraged by their peers. 

The effects are as follows: 

1. Possible case of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.

2. Depression symptoms are a likelihood after the act.

3. Cases of rape can be an occurrence.

4. Negative views on relationships as well as the opposite gender, due to bad experiences.

STEPS TO BE TAKEN 

A heart-to-heart discussion with a parent, guardian, or an older person who would give sound advice. This discussion should include the following conversations: 

1. Sex, for what it is.

2. Risk of STDs.

3. Discussions on setting boundaries.

4. Consent.

5. Pregnancy prevention measures.

6. Building healthy relationships (with or without sex).