Background: Globally, adolescent period is a critical developmental phase where many
preventable health problems are acquired. However, studies have shown that parent
adolescent sexual communication is protective against risky sexual behaviours. Nationally,
parent adolescent communication on Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) rarely occurs.
Furthermore, anecdotal evidence along the coastal towns/suburbs shows a high prevalence of
risky sexual behaviours and its associated consequences.
Objectives: This study aimed at exploring the patterns of parent-adolescent sexual
communication in the Ashiedu-Keteke sub-metro of Accra.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted within the Ashiedu-Keteke sub metro.
Data were qualitatively collected using Focus Group Discussions with adolescents, and Indepth
Interviews with parents. Convenience sampling method was used to select participants
for the study. All interviews were audio-recorded and were transcribed verbatim. Data were
analyzed thematically after the transcripts were read several times to identify appropriate
themes per the objectives.
Results: The study found that parents communicated more with adolescents on general
issues but less on SRH. Also, the media as well as unacceptable events that occurred in the
community served as triggers for initiating communication. Parents reportedly lacked fine
details of SRH issues to equip the adolescents in making the right decisions and choices. The
study identified teenage pregnancy, abortion, rape, lesbianism/ homosexuality as the most
commonly discussed sexual health topics among parents and their adolescents. However,
adolescents‘ reports revealed that they lacked detailed information about these topics and
how to prevent the occurrence of some of these risky sexual behaviours. Additionally, the
study found that parents feared that their children may become promiscuous if they discussed
sexuality issues with them; while the adolescents were also concerned that parents may brand
them as spoilt if they asked questions about sexuality.
Conclusion: Parent-adolescent sexual communication has not been effectively handled in the
Ashiedu-Keteke sub metro even though it is one of the best ways of curbing incidence of
risky sexual behaviour. Additionally, lack of trust prevents adolescents from seeking out
parents to discuss SRH issues.