Orphaned Adolescent Males in Sub-Saharan Countries: Sexuality Challenges Experienced

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper reports on the challenges experienced by orphaned adolescent males in Sub-Saharan countries. Literature research indicates that due to lack of physiological needs (for example, parental support, stable environment, clothes) due to orphanhood, a disproportionate number of male youth are prone to myriad of risk sexual behaviour such as substance abuse, promiscuity, sexually transmitted infections and teenage fatherhood. Guided by multi-theoretical approaches including Bronfenbrenner’s ecological system model and Theory of Planned Action by Fishbein and Ajzen, this paper employed systematic review to critically analyse the electronic journals and doctoral theses highlighted the plight faced by this marginalized cohort. Based on the literature findings, this paper argues that orphaned adolescent males may flourish and cope with adversity provided the school, church and governmental sectors collaborate in providing skills and social support necessary to buffer against deviant peers and exposure to disorganized environment.