Interaction Effect of Adolescents’ Gender on Adolescents’ Sexual Behaviours in Public Secondary Schools in Uasin Gishu, Kenya

July 24, 2025

Agnes Jepchoge Busienei – Department of Educational Psychology, Moi University, Kenya

Hesborn, M. N. Kodero – Department of Educational Psychology, Rongo University, Kenya

Shadrack O. Ogoma – Department of Educational Psychology, Moi University, Kenya

Abstract: Adolescent sexual behaviour remains a pressing concern in Kenya, with increasing reports of early sexual debut, unintended pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections among school-going youth. Despite numerous interventions, the role of gender in shaping these behaviours remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the interaction ef ect of adolescents’ gender on their sexual behaviours in public secondary schools in Uasin Gishu County. A descriptive survey research design was adopted with a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach (QUANqual). The target population comprised 27,773 students in Form 2 and Form 3, from which a sample of 394 was drawn using Slovene’s formula. Stratified and proportionate simple random sampling was used to select students, while purposive sampling identified 17 teacher counsellors. Data was collected using structured questionnaires for students and interview guides for teacher counselors. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (ANOVA), while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Findings revealed no significant main ef ect of gender on adolescent sexual behaviour, F(1, 310) = 0.04, p = .842, η² < .001. Descriptive statistics showed similar mean scores between male (M = 20.24) and female (M = 20.36) adolescents, indicating minimal gender disparity in reported behaviours. Qualitative responses supported these findings, noting a shift from traditional gender norms. The study concluded that gender no longer plays a distinct role in influencing adolescent sexual behaviour in the study area. The study recommended that there is a need to enhance comprehensive sexuality education, promote open adolescent-parent communication, develop gender-neutral counselling interventions, and strengthen school-based support systems.