HIV/AIDS Knowledge Among South African Youth

Abstract

A review of research literature involving HIV/AIDS knowledge of South Africans aged 14–35 was conducted. Thirty-four studies since 1990 were included. Over half the studies featured high school or University student samples. It was found that young people are very aware that AIDS is a disease that is sexually transmitted and fatal. They are less knowledgeable about HIV and how it is physically transmitted from one person to another; the asymptomatic carrier phase; and methods for preventing HIV infection. The studies show moderate to high levels of misconceptions about the risk of casual contact and insect bites. They also illustrate that respondents show less knowledge when assessed with open-ended, rather than set-choice, questions, suggesting low levels of spontaneous memory for AIDS information. Recommendations for further research are made.