Understanding the Dynamics of Parental Involvement in Addressing Adolescents’ Risky Sexual Behaviour in Mankweng Township, Limpopo Province.

Abstract

The increased engagement of researchers in parenting practices have been conceptualised as a system of dynamic interrelated dimensions that unravel the definition of involvement. These dimensions therefore unpack the perceived responsibilities of parents in terms of involvement in addressing adolescents’ risky sexual behaviour. The assertion demonstrates a notable variation of parental involvement in which its implication is dependent on approaches and practices adhered to by parents. This paper uses data from a qualitative study of parental involvement in addressing adolescents’ risky sexual behaviour in the case of Mankweng Township in Limpopo Province to determine approaches and practices used by parents as a mechanism for parental involvement, and a proposition to understanding the dynamism of parental involvement. Results from a thematic analysis of ten parents purposively selected indicates that parents apply only one approach which is communication and shows little understanding of parental involvement practices beyond checking on the adolescents; therefore, considerable involvement practices such as supervision and monitoring; spending quality time (attending events and activities) and quality relationship are presumably not known or less applied.