THE IMPACT OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT ON FEMALE STUDENTS IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE AKUAPEM

ABSTRACT

This research sought to ascertain the impact of sexual harassment on the academic and social life of female students in the Senior High Schools (SHS) in the Akuapem North Municipality. Making informed decision when confronted with acts of sexual harassment is a great hurdle to the female senior high student.

A descriptive survey design was used to investigate phenomenon. The populations of the study were 104 female students in 4 Senior High Schools in the Akuapem North District. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to arrive at the sampling size. A total number of 80 students were sampled from the four Senior High Schools. The simple random sampling was used to select 20 female students from each of the four Senior High Schools. Questionnaires were used to collect information about the existence of sexual harassment and its negative implications on female students in Senior High Schools.

The data revealed that acts of sexual harassment is on the increase in the senior high schools and is having diverse negative effects on the female students in the senior high schools. A valid and interesting finding which includes acts of sexual harassment incidence in a single sex school is made available in this study.

It is recommended that the sex education should be encouraged in all senior high schools. Also there is the need to establish guidance and counseling units in the various schools.