Breaking Barriers and Overcoming the Odds Confronting Intergenerational Communication Barriers to Adolescent Sexuality Education in Southwestern, Nigeria

Abstract

There is a growing need to effectively address the sexual and reproductive health needs of adolescents in Nigeria. Research
shows a pattern of adolescent sexual behavior indicating early sexual debut and a prevalence of premarital sex. The traditional lack of
interest in discussing sexuality at home, schools and churches creates a problem in teacher-student/ parent-child communication and
this has affected sexuality and sexuality education adversely overcoming communication barriers to sexuality education is critical to the
well-being of millions of adolescent in Nigeria today since communication barriers complicate the delivery of sexuality education both at
home, churches and in schools. This paper therefore examines the dearth and ease in effectively communicating the idea of sexuality
through the family, church and school which play major roles in socialization and ultimately, the education process. The paper concludes
by discussing the social, health and educational implications of sexuality education in Nigeria.