Exploring the Factors and Effects of Alcohol Abuse on the Behaviour of University Female Students at one South African University Campus

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 J. G. Kheswa & V. N. Hoho

Department of Psychology, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, 5700, South Africa. Email: jkheswa@ufh.ac.za

Volume 9, Number 1, 2017 I Full Text PDF

DOI: 10.21659/rupkatha.v9n1.29

Received February 10, 2017; Revised March 16, 2017; Accepted March 17, 2017; Published May 5, 2017.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the factors and effects of alcohol abuse on the behaviour of female students at one South African university campus, Eastern Cape Province. This paper is underpinned by (1) alcohol myopia theory which is based on the notion that alcohol intoxication restricts information processing and (2) social exchange theory which posits that females tend to enter into sexual relationships characterized by benefits. In a qualitative study conducted, twelve Xhosa-speaking respondents, aged 18 to 24 years, were interviewed. Ethics were adhered to throughout the research process. The following themes were identified, namely; transactional sex, gender- based violence, peer-pressure, financial support, stigma and discrimination, pregnancy and abortion. The recommendations propose that the universities should have partnership with the Police Services in protecting the human rights of students and provide more residents for female students to curb cohabitation.

Keywords:  Abortion, Drugs, Sexual promiscuity, Poverty, Violence.