Cross-cultural perspectives on adolescent perceptions of HIV/AIDS vulnerability: An American and African comparison

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to examine African and American adolescents’ claim to HIV/AIDS 
invulnerability frequently expressed stance that they are not susceptible to the transmission of HIV/AIDS. 
Participants were selected from diverse countries comprising USA, Kenya, South Africa and Tanzania. 
The method of data analysis consisted of frequency, percentage, chi-square and probability. The 
measuring instrument was a questionnaire dealing with HIV/AIDS transmission, infection and prevention. 
The results showed that the majority of participants held the perception and belief that indeed they were 
invulnerable to HIV/AIDS infection, even though some of them engaged in behaviour that predisposed 
them to contracting HIV/AIDS. In conclusion, it was argued that HIV/AIDS public education ought to 
underscore this misconception to advance the cause against HIV/AIDS pandemic.