Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

IllustrativeQuestionnairefor
InterviewSurveyswithYoung
People
JohnCleland

Introduction

This instrument is intended to be no more

than a point of departure for investigators
wishing to study the sexual and reproductive
health of young people. It should always be
adapted to local circumstances and priorities
and, wherever possible, be used in
conjunction with qualitative methods of
investigation.

Study population
The instrument is designed to be suitable for
teenagers and young people who have
reached puberty but have not yet married or
entered stable cohabiting relationships. It is
intended to be equally appropriate for males
and females, for those who are attending
school and those who have left school, and for
individuals with experience of sexual
intercourse and those without. In surveys that
are likely to include married or cohabiting
respondents, radical alterations will be needed.

Sexual conduct including number and

types of sexual partner and details of first
sexual partnership
Sexual ideology/attitudes to gender
Protective, or risk, behaviour
Condoms (knowledge, attitudes, use)
Characteristics of current (most recent)
boy/girl friend
Sexual and reproductive health services
(knowledge, use, evaluation)
Sexual and reproductive health outcomes
Background characteristics

A detailed list of variables is shown below.

Features
The questionnaire is designed to be used as a
verbatim instrument, where the interviewer
reads out each question exactly as it appears
in print. It will require careful translation into
local languages and pre-testing to ensure that
respondents easily understand the meaning of
each and every question. The English version
here is a 'unisex' instrument, equally
applicable to male and female respondents
with minor alterations in certain words. In
some languages, however, it may be
advisable to have separate questionnaires for
male and female respondents.

Purposes
The instrument is designed to document
knowledge, beliefs, behaviour and outcomes
in the domain of sexual and reproductive
health. It is thus best viewed as a tool to
assess the needs and problems of young
people, an essential preliminary to
intervention or advocacy.
Content
The questionnaire will yield information on the
following, overlapping topics.
Sources of information on sexual and
reproductive health
Sexual and reproductive health
knowledge

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

ListofVariables
1. Sources of Information on Sexual and Reproductive Health
Source
Questions
Important sources

Preferred sources

Parents

School

Health facilities/staff

Most important source about puberty

2.1

Second most important source about puberty

2.1

Most important source about reproductive systems

2.3

Second most important source about reproductive systems

2.3

Most important source about relationships

2.5

Second most important source about relationships

2.5

Preferred source about puberty

2.2

Preferred source about reproductive systems

2.4

Preferred source about relationships

2.6

Frequency of discussing sex with father

1.27

Frequency of discussing sex with mother

1.31

Exposure to sex-education in school

2.7

Opinion on amount of sex-education in school

2.8

Saw posters on contraception at last visit to health facility

11.5

Received brochures on contraception at last visit to health facility

11.6

Attended talk on contraception at last visit to health facility

11.7

Doctor/nurse talked about contraception at last visit to health

facility

11.9

Doctor/nurse talked about STIs at last visit to health facility

11.9

Doctor/nurse talked about pregnancy at last visit to health facility

11.9

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

2. Sexual and Reproductive Health Knowledge

Source
Reproductive
physiology

Contraception

HIV/STDs

Belief that a woman can get pregnant at first intercourse

2.9

Belief that a woman stops growing after first intercourse

2.10

Belief that masturbation is a serious health threat

2.11

Belief that pregnancy is most likely to occur in mid-cycle

2.12

Spontaneous/prompted awareness of pill and supply source

7.2

Spontaneous/prompted awareness of injection and supply source

7.3

Spontaneous/prompted awareness of condom and supply source

7.4

Spontaneous/prompted awareness of emergency contraceptive

pills and supply source

7.5

Spontaneous/prompted awareness of withdrawal

7.6

Spontaneous/prompted awareness of periodic abstinence

7.7

Spontaneous knowledge of IUD, Implant, jelly/foam, sterilisation

7.8

View on most suitable method for young people

7.9

Agree that condoms effectively protect against pregnancy

9.6

Awareness of HIV/AIDS

8.1

Belief that it is possible to cure AIDS

8.2

Belief that HIV-infected person always looks unhealthy

8.3

Belief that condoms reduce risk of HIV infection

Condoms

8.4, 9.10

Awareness of STIs

8.5

Knowledge of symptoms of STIs in men

8.6

Knowledge of symptoms of STIs in women

8.7

Knowledge of sources of treatment of STIs

8.7

Ever seen a condom

9.5

Agree that condoms effectively protect against pregnancy

9.6

Agree that condoms effectively protect against HIV

9.10

Agree that condoms can disappear inside a woman's body

9.16

Agree that condoms effectively protect against STIs

9.18

Agree that condoms can be used more than once

9.7

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

3. Sexual Conduct
Source
General Heterosexual

Ever experienced sexual intercourse

Age at first intercourse

5.2 OR 3.25

Life-time number of sexual partners

Characteristics of
First Sex
partner/Partnership

4.14

Number of coercive sex partners

4.1, 4.2

Number of casual sex partners

4.6, 4.7

Number of commercial sex partners

4.9, 4.10

Recency of last intercourse

4.15

Sexual intercourse with current boy/girl friend

3.20

Nature of relationship
IF BOY/GIRL FRIEND:

5.4

Age of partner

5.5 or 3.4

Marital status of partner

5.6 or 3.5

School/employment status of partner

5.7 or 3.6

When relationship started

5.8 or 3.7

Duration of relationship
Whether relationship has ended

Characteristics of
First Intercourse

4.12, 4.13

5.9/5.10 or 3.8/3.9
5.9 or 3.8

Who ended the relationship

5.11 or 3.10

Whether there were concurrent relationships

5.12 or 3.11

Respondent's classification of relationship

5.13 or 3.12

Partner's perceived classification of relationship

5.14 or 3.13

Respondent's age at that time

5.2 or 3.25

Nature of coercion, if any

5.15 or 3.22

Whether planned

5.16 or 3.23

Whether regretted afterwards

5.17 or 3.26

Contraceptive method used

Whether contraception was discussed before or after

5.18/19 or 3.27/28
5.20 or 3.29

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Subsequent sexual
conduct and
outcomes with first
partner

Number of coital acts

5.21 or 3.30

Regularity of contraceptive used

5.22 or 3.31

Usual method use

5.23 or3.32

Source of method

5.24 or 3.33

Who took contraceptive decisions

5.25 or 3.34

Whether pregnancy occurred

5.26 or 3.35

Outcome of pregnancy

5.27 or 3.36

Respondent's concern about HIV

5.28 or 3.37

Preventive steps taken against HIV

Homosexual
Experiences

5.29/30 or 3.38/9

Ever sexually attracted

6.1

Ever had sexual contact

6.2

Masturbation

6.3, 6.4

Sexual orientation

6.10

MALES ONLY:
Number of penetrative partners

6.6, 6.7

Number of receptive partners

6.8, 6.9

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

4. Sexual Ideology/Gender
Source
Sexual
permissiveness

Belief that it is alright to 'date'

10.1

Belief that it is alright to hug/touch

10.2

Belief that sexual intercourse is alright if couple love each other

10.3

Personal belief that love is essential for sex

1018

Belief that sex should precede engagement

10.8

Belief in female/male pre-marital virginity

Peer influences

Gender

10.9, 10.10

Belief that sex is alright if contraceptive is used

10.13

Belief that one-night stands are alright

10.24

Belief that peers approve of one-night stands

10.12

Belief that peers think that sexual intercourse is alright if couple

love each other

10.22

Perception of proportion of peers who have had intercourse

10.25

Belief that a boy will not respect a girl who agrees to sex

10.5

Belief in female/male pre-marital virginity

10.9, 10.10

Belief in female/male regret about having intercourse

10.6, 10.7

Belief that contraception is girl's responsibility

10.17

Belief that men need more sex

10.21

Pressure

Perceived pressure to have intercourse

4.27

Coercion

Belief that boys have to force sex

10.4

Belief that physical violence can be justifiable

10.11

Personal attitude to abortion

10.16

Perceived attitude of peers to abortion

10.20

Abortion

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

5. Protective Behaviour
Source
Contraception with
different types of
partner

Regularity of contraception with coercive sex partners

4.3

Regularity of contraception with casual sex partners

4.8

Regularity of contraception with commercial sex partners

4.11

Current/most recent
contraceptive status

Method of contraception used at most recent act

4.16, 4.17

Contraception with
first sex partner

Method used at first sexual act

5.18/5.19 or
3.27-3.28

Regularity of contraceptive use with first sexual partner

5.22 or 3.31

Usual method used

5.23 or 3.32

Contraception with
current boy/girl friend

Method used at first sexual act with current boy/girl friend

3.27/3.28

Regularity of contraceptive use with current boy/girl friend

3.31/3.32

Ever use of specific

contraceptive
methods

Methods ever-used

Protection against
HIV/STDs with first
sex partner

Concern about infection

5.28 or 3.37

Preventive steps taken

5.29/30 or
3.38/39

Protection against
HIV/STDS with current
boy/girl friend

Concern about infection

7.11

3.37
Preventive steps taken

STD Treatment

Use of Services

Reasons for virginity

3.38/39

Whether most recent STI was treated

8.11

Source of treatment

8.12

Whether partner was treated

8.13

Number of visits to RH health facility in last 12 months

11.1, 11.2

Type of facility most recently visited

11.3

Reason for most recent visit

11.4

Whether contraception was requested at most recent visit

11.8

Reasons for virginity

4.21-4.25

Future plans

4.26

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

6. Condoms
Source
Awareness/
Knowledge

Attitudes

Use

Spontaneous/prompted awareness of condoms

7.4

Awareness of source

7.4

Ever seen a condom

9.5

Agree that condoms effectively protect against pregnancy

9.6

Agree that condoms effectively protect against HIV

9.10

Agree that condoms effectively protect against STIs

9.18

Agree that condoms can disappear inside a woman's body

9.16

Agree that condoms can be used more than once

9.7

Agree that a girl can initiate use

9.8

Agree that a boy can initiate use

9.9

Agree that condoms are suitable for casual relationship

9.11

Agree that condoms are suitable for steady relationships

9.12

Agree that it would be too embarrassing to buy condoms

9.13

Agree that girl's suggestion to use implies distrust

9.14

Agree that condoms reduce sexual pleasure

9.15

Agree that unmarried couples should use condoms

9.17

Ever used

9.3, 7.11

Ever experienced condom breakage

9.4

Use at most recent coital act

4.17

Use at first coital act

5.19 or 3.28

Main method used with first partner

5.23 or 3.32

Source of supply

5.24 or 3.33

Use to prevent HIV with first partner

5.30 or 3.39

Use at first coital act with current boy/girl friend

3.28

Main method used with current boy/girl friend

3.32

Source of supply

3.33

Use to prevent HIV with current boy/girl friend

3.39

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Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

7. Current (most recent) boy/girl friend

Source
Characteristics of
friend

Age of friend

3.4

Marital status of friend

3.5

School/employment status of friend

3.6

When relationship started

3.7

Duration of relationship

Degree of physical
intimacy

Characteristics of first
intercourse with
current boy/girl friend

Whether relationship has ended

3.8

Who ended the relationship

3.10

Whether there were concurrent relationships

3.11

Respondent's classification of relationship

3.12

Partner's perceived classification of relationship

3.13

Ever held hands, hugged etc

3.4

Kissed on lips

3.15

Touched sex organs

3.16

Mutual masturbation

3.17, 3.18

Penetrative intercourse

3.20

Penetrative intercourse with climax

3.21

Respondent's age at that time

3.25

Nature of coercion, if any

3.22

Whether planned

3.23

Whether regretted afterwards

2.26

Contraceptive method used

Subsequent sexual
conduct and
outcomes with
current boy/girl friend

3.8, 3.9

3.24, 3.28

Whether contraceptive was discussed before or after

3.29

Number of coital acts

3.30

Regularity of contraceptive use

3.31

Usual method used

3.32

Source of method

3.33

Who took contraceptive decisions

3.34

Whether pregnancy occurred

3.35

Outcome of pregnancy

3.36

Respondent's concern about HIV

3.37

Preventive steps taken against HIV

11

3.38, 3.39

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

8. Sexual and Reproductive Health Services

Source
Knowledge of
services

Knowledge of supply sources for specific contraceptive methods

Knowledge of places of STI treatment

8.7

Use of services

Ever used RH services

11.1

Number of visits in last 12 months

11.2

Type of facility

11.3

Reason for visit

11.4

Characteristics of
most recent visit

Exposure to information about contraception

7.2-7.5, Col. 3

11.5-11.7

Whether contraceptive services were requested

11.8

Whether staff spoke about contraception, STIs, pregnancy

11.9

Whether respondent felt able to ask questions

11.10

Whether questions were answered adequately

11.11

Whether there was sufficient privacy

11.12

Source of
contraceptive
methods

Source of method used with first partner

Source of method used with current boy/girl friend

3.33

Source of STI
treatment

Source of treatment for most recent STI episode

8.12

12

5.24 or 3.33

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

9. Sexual and Reproductive Health Outcomes

Source
Pregnancy

STIs

Coercive/commercial
sex

Lifetime number of pregnancies

4.18

Whether last pregnancy was wanted

4.19

Whether last pregnancy was aborted

4.20

Pregnancy by first partner

5.26 or 3.35

Outcome of pregnancy by first partner

5.27 or 3.36

Pregnancy by current boy/girl friend

3.35

Outcome of pregnancy by current boy/girl friend

3.35

Lifetime number of STIs

8.10

Whether treatment was sought for last episode

8.11

Whether partner obtained treatment

8.13

Lifetime number of coercive sex partners

4.2

Lifetime number of commercial sex partners

4.10

Frequency of physical sexual harassment

Coercion at first intercourse
Coercion at first intercourse with current boy/girl friend

13

4.4, 4.5
5.15 or 3.22
3.22

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

10. Background Characteristics

Source
Age Schooling

Age

1.2, 1.3

Literacy

1.4

Schooling attainment

1.5-1.7

(Projected) age at leaving regular schooling

Currently in education
Characteristics of school attended

Employment

Religion

Family

Life-style

Work status

1.9, 1.10
1.8
1.11-1.13

1.14, 1.16, 1.20

Age at starting work

1.15

Hours worked per week

1.17

Weekly earnings

1.19

Type of work

1.18

Religion

1.21

Frequency of attending religious services

1.22

Religiosity

1.23

Co-residence with father

1.24, 1.25

Co-residence with mother

1.28, 1.29

Co-residence with older brother

1.32, 1.33

Co-residence with older sister

1.34, 1.35

Ease of communication with father

1.26

Ease of communication with mother

1.30

Frequency of going to clubs/parties

1.36

Frequency of going to movies

1.37

Alcohol consumption

1.38

Cigarette consumption

1.39

Life-time number of boy/girl friends

14

3.1, 3.2

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

IllustrativeQuestionnairefor
InterviewSurveyswithYoung
People
JohnCleland

Questionnaire
Section 1: Socioeconomic and family characteristics
Section 2: Sources of information on, and knowledge of reproductive health
Section 3: Current/most recent heterosexual relationship
Section 4: Types of heterosexual contact
Section 5: First sexual relationship
Section 6: Homosexual experiences
Section 7: Knowledge and ever-use of contraceptive methods
Section 8: Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases
Section 9: Condom knowledge and attitudes
Section 10: Sexuality, gender and norms
Section 11: Use and perceptions of health services

15

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 1: Socioeconomic and family characteristics

This section addresses key characteristics of the respondent's life (school, work, family
communication, recreation) that may shape sexual conduct and sexual health. Much scope exists for
expanding the information collected about recreations, pastimes and social activities.
Age
Q1.2-1.3

Both date of birth and age at last birthday are asked to maximise accuracy of this
critically important variable. Interviewers should be instructed to check the
consistency of the two answers and reconcile if necessary.

Schooling
Length of schooling and educational performance are likely to be powerful influences on sexual
conduct. Investigators might consider the addition of questions on (a) reasons for leaving full-time
schooling (b) schooling aspirations (c) subjective self rating of academic performance.
Q1.6-1.7

These questions may need adaptation to be local school system. For instance,
some countries have a 'middle' tier of schools in between primary and secondary
schools.
In Q1.6 codes 03-05 are to be used for respondents who received further, or tertiary,
training without having attended secondary school. Codes 06-10 are to be used for
respondents who received tertiary training and who also attended secondary school

Q1.9-1.10

The objective of these two questions is to permit a classification of all respondents in

terms of actual projected age at leaving regular schooling. Respondents saying
don't know to Q1.9 should be probed to obtain a reasonable estimate.

Q1.11-1.13

These questions relate to the most recent (i.e. highest) school/college that the
respondent attended regularly.

Work
Work experience is of interest in several ways. First, the transition from schooling to employment is
an important marker of social position. Second, receipt of pay brings opportunities for expenditure an
entertainment, alcohol etc that may be related to sexual conduct. Third, the nature of the part- or fulltime occupation may also determine exposure to different types of opportunity and influence.
1.14

Interviewers should stress the words "for pay". Unpaid work (e.g. household chores,
helping in family business) does not count.

1.18

If a thorough pre-test is conducted, it may be possible to provide a pre-coded list of

types of work with an 'other-specify' category.

Religion
1.21

Investigators should adapt this answer list to local circumstances to capture

important sects.

Religiosity (Q1.22-1.23)
Religiosity, though difficult to measure, may act as a more powerful influence on behaviour than
formal religious affiliation.

16

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Family Composition and Communication (Q1.24-1.35)

Ability to communicate with parents (if alive) and older siblings on sex-related matters has been
found in some societies to influence sexual conduct and sexual risk. However, in some cultures
relatives other than parents of siblings may be traditionally more important confidants (e.g. aunties)
and the questionnaire may need to be adapted to such cultural variations.
The model questionnaire permits a very simple measure of household composition - namely whether
the respondent lives with mother, father, older brothers and sisters. Investigators may wish to obtain
a complete listing of usual household members. Other topics that could be added here include: (a)
parental restrictions on respondent's activities/mobility; (b) household amenities and possessions to
obtain an indirect measure of wealth: (c) education/occupation of parents to obtain a social status
indicator.

Social Activities and Habits (Q1.36-1.39)

This sub-section will nearly always require adaptation to local circumstances. In some settings,
forms of substance abuse other than alcohol and tobacco may merit investigation. Exposure to
pornographic videos is yet another possible topic.

17

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 1: Socioeconomic and family characteristics

1.1

SEX OF RESPONDENT

MALE

FEMALE

1.2

What day, month and year were you born?

Day

1.3

How old were you at your last birthday?

Years old

Month

Year

CROSS-CHECK WITH DATE OF BIRTH AND

RECONCILE
1.4

1.5

1.6

Can you read, for example, a newspaper?

Have you ever-attended school?

What is the highest level of schooling you

completed?
(CIRCLE HIGHEST SCHOOL LEVEL)

Yes

No

Yes

No

Primary
Secondary
Tertiary without Secondary School:
Technical
Commercial or Secretarial
Preparatory
Tertiary with secondary School:
Technical
Commercial or Secretarial
Teacher Training College (TTC)
University
Postgraduate

01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10

1.7

What class/form/grade/year did you complete at this

school..?

Class/
Form etc

1.8

Are you currently attending regular school, college

or university? Full-time or part-time?

Yes, full-time

Yes, part-time

No

1.9

How many more years of education do you expect to

receive?

1.10 How old were you when you left school, college or
university?

Years

Age

18

1.14

1.10
1.11

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

1.11 Is the school, college or university that you

attend(ed) a government or private institution?

Government

Private

1.12 Is it run by a particular religion or religious group?

Yes

No

1.13 Is the school or university that you attend(ed) for

READ OUT

Boys and girls?

Only boys (only girls)?

1.14 Now I have some questions about work.

Yes

No

Have you ever worked for pay?

1.15 How old were you when you started working for
pay?

Age in years

1.16 Are you currently working for pay?

Yes

No

1.17 About how many hours a week do you work?

Hours

1.18 What type of work do (did) you do? PROBE

1.19 How much do (did) you earn in a week?

Weekly wage

1.20 Are you looking for work?

Yes

No

None

01

Catholic
Protestant
Muslim
Hindu
Jew
Other..

(SPECIFY)

02
03
04
05
06

1.21 What is your religion?

19

Enter Unit.

07

1.20

1.20

1.21

1.24

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

1.22 How often do you usually attend religious services?

Every day
At least once a week
At least once a month
At least one a year
Less than once a year
Never

1
2
3
4
5
6

1.23 How important is religion in your life?

Very important
Important
Not important

1
2
3

1.24 Now I have some questions about your family. Is

your father alive?

Yes

No

1.25 Does he live in the same household as you?

Yes

No

Very easy
Easy
Average
Difficult
Very difficult
Do not see him

1
2
3
4
5
6

Often

Occasionally

Never

Yes

No

Yes

No

Very easy
Easy
Average
Difficult
Very difficult
Do not see her

1
2
3
4
5
6

1.26 Do you find it difficult or easy to talk with your father

about things that are important to you?

1.27 Have you ever discussed sex-related matters with

your father? If YES Often or occasionally?

1.28 Is your mother alive?

1.29 Does she live in the same household as you?

1.30 Do you find it difficult or easy to talk with your

mother about things that are important to you?

20

1.28

1.38

1.32

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

1.31 Have you ever discussed sex-related matters with

your mother? If YES Often or occasionally?

1.32 Do you have any older brothers?

1.33 Do any live in the same household?

1.34 Do you have any older sisters?

1.35 Do any live in the household?

1.36 And now I have some questions about your social

activities. Do you ever go to clubs or parties where
young people dance? IF YES. How many times in
the last month?

Often

Occasionally

Never

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Number of times

Never

88

1.37 Do you ever go to the movies? IF YES. How many

times in the last month?

Number of times

Never

88

1.38 Do you ever drink alcohol? IF YES. On how many

days in the last month have you drunk alcohol?

Number of days

Never

88

1.39 Do you ever smoke cigarettes? IF YES. How many

have you smoked in the last 7 days?

Number of
Cigarettes

Never

88

21

1.34

1.36

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 2: Sources of information on, and knowledge of reproductive health

This section divides sexual and reproductive health information into three broad categories: (1)
physical maturation, or puberty, namely the acquisition during the teenage years of secondary sexual
characteristics: (2) biological aspects of the sexual/reproductive system which might include
contraception and sexual intercourse: (3) social aspects of relationships between men and women,
which might include moral aspects of courtship, marriage etc.
This section will require careful pre-testing to establish whether or not respondents are able to
understand the distinctions between these three domains and whether the pre-coded list of answers
is appropriate.
2.1-2.2

Note that only one answer can be circled in each column. The same applies to 2.32.4 and 2.5-2.6.

Sex Education in School

Before fielding the survey, pilot work should be conducted to ascertain the existence and nature of
'sex education' in schools. In settings where active sex education does exist, it will be valuable to
expand 2.7-2.8 to obtain more precise measures of exposure to this form of instruction.

Knowledge of Reproductive Physiology

Q 2.9-2.12

measure the accuracy of respondents' knowledge about basic sexual/reproductive

physiology. Although answers to individual items are of interest, a summary score
will be of most analytic use. Do not forget to take into account that the correct
answer to 2.9 and 2.12 is 'true' but is 'false' to 2.10 and 2.11. Investigators should
also consider whether these questions are suitable for the study population or
whether more appropriate ones can be devised.

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Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 2: Sources of information on, and knowledge of reproductive health

2.1

2.2

Young people learn about puberty - I mean the

ways in which boys' and girls' bodies change during
the teenage years - from many sources. They may
learn from teachers at school, parents, brothers and
sisters, from friends, from doctors or they may learn
from books, films and magazines. What has been
the most important source of information for you on
this topic? And the second most important?
CIRCLE MOST IMPORTANT IN COL 1 AND
SECOND MOST IMPORTANT IN COL 2

From whom, or where, would you prefer to have

received more information on this topic?
CIRCLE ONE ANSWER IN COL. 3

2.3

2.4

Now I want to ask you a similar question about

sources of information on the sexual and
reproductive systems of men and women - I
mean where eggs and sperm are made and how
pregnancy occurs. What has been the most
important source of information on this topic? And
the second most important? CIRCLE IN COLS. 1
AND 2.

From whom or where, would you prefer to receive

(or prefer to have received) more information on this
topic?
CIRCLE ONE ANSWER IN COL. 3

(1)
Most
Important
School teacher
Mother
Father
Brother
Sister
Other family
members
Friends
Doctors
Books/magazines
Films/Videos
Other
(Specify
)

School teacher
Mother
Father
Brother
Sister
Other family
members
Friends
Doctors
Books/magazines
Films/Videos
Other
(Specify
)

23

(2)
Second most
important

(3)
Preferred

01
02
03
04
05
06

01
02
03
04
05
06

01
02
03
04
05
06

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

(1)
Most
Important

(2)
Second most
important

(3)
Preferred

01
02
03
04
05
06

01
02
03
04
05
06

01
02
03
04
05
06

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

2.5

2.6

Now there is a third similar question about sources

of information on relationships - I mean how boys
should treat girls and vice versa. What has been the
most important source of information on this topic?
And the second most important? CIRCLE IN COLS
1 AND 2

From whom, or where, would you prefer to receive

more information on this topic?
CIRCLE ONE ANSWER IN COL. 3

2.7

Some schools have classes on puberty, on sexual

and reproductive systems and on relationships
between boys and girls. Did you ever attend school
classes on any of these topics?

2.8

Do you think that there should be (more) classes on

these topics, fewer classes or were the number
about right?

2.9

Now I have some other questions on sex and

reproduction. I will read you some statements.
Please tell me whether you think the statement is
true, or false, or whether you don't know.

(1)
Most
Important
School teacher
Mother
Father
Brother
Sister
Other family
members
Friends
Doctors
Books/magazines
Films/Videos
Other
(Specify
)

(2)
Second most
important

01
02
03
04
05
06

01
02
03
04
05
06

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

01
02
03
04
05
06

Yes
No
Not sure
Never been to school

1
2
3
4

More
Less
About right

1
2
3

True

False

Don't Know/
Not Sure

2.10 A woman stops growing after she has had sexual

intercourse for the first time.

2.11 Masturbation causes serious damage to health.

2.12 A woman is most likely to get pregnant if she has

sexual intercourse half way between her periods.

A woman can get pregnant on the very first time that

she has sexual intercourse.

24

(3)
Preferred

07
08
09
10
11
...
..

2.9

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 3: Current/most recent heterosexual relationship

The purpose of this section is to establish the types of relationships that young people form, their
degree of sexual intimacy and communication, and the possible attendant risks of unwanted
pregnancy or sexually transmitted infectious (STIs). This purpose is achieved by asking about
current or most recent relationship. An ideal strategy would have been to ask about all such
relationships in the last x years but the length of the interview could have become excessive for
some respondents.
Investigators need to think carefully about how to adapt the concept of 'boy/girlfriend' and 'dating' to
local circumstances. The assumption behind the model questionnaire is that some young people will
'go out with' someone of the opposite sex to whom they are emotionally or sexually attracted and that
this 'going out' or 'dating' will be unsupervised by adults and thus provide opportunity for sexual
intimacy. In settings where this assumption in invalid, this section may have to be deleted or
radically modified.
Q 3.3

Interviewers should be instructed to stress that the full name is not needed so as to
avoid suspicions of loss of confidentiality.

Q 3.12

This phrasing of the question will need careful adaptation.

Sexual Conduct
Q 3.14-3.21

The appropriateness of this progressive sequence of sexual acts and the precise
vocabulary need to be ascertained by qualitative research prior to the survey.

Q 3.20

Positive answers to this question are classified as sexual intercourse and are used
as a crucially important filter in Section 4. Whatever words are used, they must
convey the meaning of penetrative intercourse without any ambiguity

Q 3.22

The options here should be read out slowly and repeated if necessary.

Q3.32

If more than one method has been used, interviewers should probe for the method
more frequently used. Abortion should not be included here.

Q3.33

The list of possible supply sources may need adaptation to local circumstances.

Abortion
If you anticipate frequent reporting of induced abortion, extra questions on circumstances, place, cost
of abortion and post-abortion morbidity will be useful.

Live-births
If you anticipate frequent reporting of live-births extra questions in survival of the live-birth, care-taker
of the infant/child will be useful.
Q 3.40

This is a difficult question to administer because interviewers have to turn back and
summarize answer to Q 3.14-3.19. Particular emphasis is needed in training.

25

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 3: Current/most recent heterosexual relationship

3.1

3.2

Have you ever had a girl/ boy friend? By girl/boy

friend, I mean someone to whom you were sexually
or emotionally attracted and whom you 'dated' (use
local terms to specify going out together
unaccompanied by other adults)

Yes

No

How many girl / boy friends have you had?

Number

Section 4

Ask the following sequence of questions about CURRENT (MOST RECENT) girl / boy friend
3.3

What is her/his first name?

Name:_________________________

3.4

How old is NAME? Probe for current age

Age

3.5

When you started your relationship, was NAME

single, married, divorced or separated?

Single
Married
Divorce
Separated

1
2
3
4

3.6

When you started you relationship with NAME, was

NAME a full time student, working or neither?

Full time student

Working
Neither

1
2
3

3.7

How many months or years ago did you first 'date'

NAME?

Months
ago

3.8

Has the relationship ended?

Yes
No

3.9

How many days/weeks/months did it last? I mean

from the first time you 'dated' to the last time?

or Years
ago
1
2

3.11

Days
Or
Weeks
Or
Months

3.10 Who decided to end the relationship? You, NAME or

both of you.

Me
NAME
Both
Other

1
2
3
4

3.11 During the time you were/have been 'dating' NAME

did you 'date'/have you dated anyone else?

Yes
No

1
2

3.12 How would you describe your relationship with

NAME? Was (is) it (a) a casual friendship; (b) a
serious relationship but with no intention of
marriage; or (c) an important relationship that might
lead to marriage?

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)

Casual
Serious
Important/might lead to marriage
Engaged to be married

26

1
2
3
4

3.14

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

3.13 And how do you think NAME would describe her /his
relationship to you? (a) as a casual friendship; (b) a
serious relationship but with no intention of
marriage; (c) an important relationship that might
lead to marriage?

(a) Casual
(b) Serious
(c) Important/might lead to marriage

1
2
3

3.14 Did you and NAME have any physical contact, such
as holding hands, hugging or kissing?

Yes
No

1
2

3.15 Did you ever kiss NAME on the lips?

Yes
No

1
2

3.16 Did you ever touch NAME'S vagina/penis with your

hand?

Yes
No

1
2

3.17 Did you ever stroke NAME'S vagina/penis so that

she/he climaxed?

Yes
No

1
2

3.18 Did NAME ever touch your penis/vagina with her /his
hand?

Yes
No

1
2

3.19 Did NAME ever stroke your penis/vagina so that you

climaxed?

Yes
No

1
2

3.20 MALES: Did you ever put your penis inside NAME's
vagina?

Yes
No

1
2

Yes
No

1
2

FEMALES: Did NAME ever put his penis inside your

vagina?
3.21 MALES: Did you ever reach climax inside NAME'S
vagina?
FEMALES: Did NAME ever reach climax inside your
vagina?
QUESTION 3.22 - 3.39 ARE ONLY FOR THOSE WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED PENETRATIVE SEX
3.22 Think back to the first time you had sex with NAME I mean the first time that the penis was in the vagina.
Would you say. READ OUT
(a) I forced NAME to have intercourse against
her/his will
(b) I persuaded NAME to have intercourse
(c) NAME persuaded me to have intercourse
(d) NAME forced me to have intercourse
(e) We were both equally willing
3.23 And would you say it was planned or unexpected?

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)

I forced
I persuaded
NAME persuaded
NAME forced
Both willing

Planned
Unexpected

27

1
2
3
4
5
1
2

3.18

3.40

3.40

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

3.24 Was this the first time that you had full sexual
intercourse in your life?

Yes
No

3.25 How old were you at the time you first had sex with
NAME?

AGE

3.26 Did you regret having intercourse with NAME on that

first time?

Yes, regretted
No, not regretted

1
2

3.27 On that first time did you or NAME do anything to

avoid a pregnancy?

Yes
No

1
2

3.28 What method did you use?

Condom
Pill
Injection
Withdrawal
Safe period
Other..

1
2
3
4
5
6

3.29 Did you ever discuss contraception with NAME? IF

YES Did you discuss contraception before or after
you first had intercourse?

Before first intercourse

After first intercourse
Never

1
2
3

3.30 How many times did you and NAME have full
intercourse? (estimate)

No.
Once only

3.35

3.31 Apart from the first time, did you and NAME ever use
a method to avoid pregnancy? IF YES Always or
sometimes?

Always
Sometimes
Never

1
2
3

3.34

3.32 What method did you and NAME mostly use?

(MULTIPE RESPONSES PERMITTED)

Condom
Pill
Injection
Withdrawal
Safe period
Other..

1
2
3
4
5
6

Shop
Pharmacy
Govt. Clinic/Health Centre/Hospital
Private Doctor/Nurse/Clinic
Friend
Other..
Don't know

1
2
3
4
5
6
9

3.33 Where did you or NAME get this method? (CIRCLE

ONLY ONE)

28

1
2

3.26

3.29

3.34

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

3.34 SEE Q. 3.31 Whose decision was it to use a

method always/sometimes/never? Was it mainly
your decision, NAME'S decision or a joint decision?

My decision
NAME'S decision
Joint decision

1
2
3

3.35 MALES: Did NAME ever become pregnant by you?

Yes
No

1
2

3.36 What happened to the pregnancy?

Currently pregnant
Abortion
Miscarriage
Live-birth
No sure

1
2
3
4
5

3.37 Were you ever concerned that you might catch AIDS
or another sexually transmitted disease from NAME?
IF YES Very or somewhat?

Very concerned
Somewhat concerned
Not concerned

1
2
3

SECTION 4

3.38 Were you able to do anything to reduce the risk of

infection

Yes
No

1
2

SECTION 4

3.39 What did you do? Probe

Use condoms
Take medicines
Other (..)

1
2
3

(a) Respondent wanted

(b) NAME wanted

(c) Neither wanted

3.37

FEMALES: Did you ever become pregnant by

NAME?

3.40 REVIEW QUESTIONS 3.14-3.19 AND SUMMARIZE

DEGREE OF PHYSICAL INTIMACY. THEN ASK
ONLY IF RELEVANT. You had no physical
contact/kissed/touched etc. with NAME . Think
carefully and tell me which of these statements is
true. READ OUT
(a) I wanted (more) physical contact but NAME
refused
(b) NAME wanted (more) physical contact but I
refused
(c) Neither of us wanted more physical contact

29

SECTION 4

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 4: Types of heterosexual contact

Sexual intercourse does not necessarily occur with a girl/boyfriend. It may happen in coercive
circumstances, it may be financial in motive, or may occur voluntarily but outside of any 'relationship',
as in a 'one-night stand'. This section starts by enquiring about sexual intercourse under each of
these circumstances; details about life-time number of sexual partners and most recent act of
intercourse are then obtained.
Q 4.4

This question seeks information about frequency of sexual harassment.

Q 4.6

The concept of 'one-night stands' will require careful translation and should be
distinguished from commercial sex.

Q 4.9

Interviewers should stress the phrase "in exchange for". The intention here is to
identify sexual encounters where the main motive is money or gifts.

Filter 4.12

is an important filter, requiring the interview to review Q 3.20 as well as earlier

answers in Section 4.

Q 4.20

See comment on page 11/12.

Reasons for Virginity

Questions on this page are asked only of respondents who have not experienced sexual intercourse.
The objective here is to obtain information on the reasons, future expectations and
the possibility of pressure from others to have intercourse.

30

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 4: Types of heterosexual contact

INTERVIEWER SEE Q. 3.1-3.3 ON PAGE 7
ANSWER TO 3.1 IS "NO": You told me that you have had no girl/boy friends. I now want to ask you
about any sexual contacts that you may have experienced.
ANSWER TO 3.1 IS "YES": You have told me about your relationship with NAME. Apart from her/him
and any earlier girl /boy friends, I now want to ask you about other types of sexual partners that you may
have experienced.
4.1

Some young people are forced to have sexual

intercourse against their will by a stranger, a relative or
an older person. Has this ever happened to you?

Yes
No

4.2

How many different strangers, relatives or older perons

have forced you to have sex against your will?

No.

4.3

Did you or the sexual partner do anything to avoid a

pregnancy on these occasions? IF YES Always or
sometimes?

Always
Sometimes
Never

1
2
3

4.4

Some young people/females are touched on the breast

or some other part of the body when they do not want
to be, by a stranger, a relative or an older person. Has
this ever happened to you?

Yes
No

1
2

4.5

Would you say this has happened often, sometimes, or

rarely?

Often
Sometimes
Rarely

1
2
3

4.6

Some young people have 'one night stands' (use local

terms), perhaps after a party or after drinking? Has
this ever happened to you?

Yes
No

1
2

4.7

How many 'one night stands' have you had?

No.

4.8

Did you or the sexual partner do anything to avoid a

pregnancy on these occasions? IF YES Always or
sometimes?

Always
Sometimes
Never

1
2
3

Yes
No
Yes
No

1
2
1
2

4.9a Some young people pay money or gifts in exchange for

sexual intercourse. Has this ever happened to you?
4.9b Some you people receive money or gifts in exchange
for sexual intercourse. Has this ever happened to you?
4.10 How many women/men have you had sex with for
money or gifts?

No.

4.11 Did you or the sexual partner de anything to avoid a

pregancy on these occasions? IF YES Always or
sometimes?

Always
Sometimes
Never

31

1
2

1
2
3

4.3

4.6

4.8

4.11
4.11

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

REVIEW 3.20 AND 4.1, 4.5, 4.8 AND TICK APPROPRIATE BOX
4.12 Respondent has not
reported sexual
Intercourse

Respondent has
reported
sexual intercourse

4.13 I want to make certain that I have the correct

information. Have you ever had sexual intercourse
in your whole life?

Yes
No

4.14 In your whole life how many people have you had
sexual intercourse with?

No.

4.15 How long ago did you last have intercourse with a
woman/man?

Weeks ago
Or
Months ago

IF LESS THAN ONE WEEK, ENTER 00 WEEKS

4.14

1
2

4.21

4.18

4.16 On that last occasion did you or your partner do

anything to avoid pregnancy?

Yes
No

1
2

4.17 What method was used?

Condom
Pill
Injection
Withdrawal
Safer Period
Other ..

1
2
3
4
5
6

4.18 MALES: Have you ever made a girl or woman

pregnant? IF YES How many times?

No.
Never
Not Sure

0
9

4.19 Thinking of the most recent pregnancy, did you want

the pregnancy at that time or not want it?

Want
Not want

1
2

4.20 What happened to the (last) pregnancy?

Currently pregnant
Abortion
Miscarriage
Live-birth
Not sure

1
2
3
4
5

FEMALES: Have you ever been pregnant? IF YES

How many times?

32

4.19

Section 5

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

THIS PAGE I ONLY FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER

EXPERIENCED SEXUAL INTERCOURSE
Applies

Not applies

Don't Know/
Not Sure

4.21 I don't feel ready to have sex.

4.22 I have not had the opportunity.

4.23 I think that sex before marriage is wrong

4.24 I am afraid of getting pregnant

4.25 I am afraid of getting HIV/AIDS or another sexually

transmitted infection.

People may have mixed reasons for not having

intercourse. I will read out some reasons. Please tell me
for each reason whether it applies to you or not.

4.26 And now I have a question about your future plans

about sexual intercourse. Which of these statement
best describes your plans. READ OUT
(a) I plan to wait until marriage

(a)

Marriage

(b) I plan to wait until I am engaged to be married

(b)

Engagement

(c) I plan to wait until I find someone I love

(c)

Love

(d) I plan to have sexual intercourse when an

opportunity comes along

(d)

Opportunity

4.27 Do you feel any pressure from others to have sexual

intercourse? IF YES A great deal or a little?

4.28 From whom do you feel pressure? PROBE CIRCLE

ALL THAT APPLY

A great deal

A little 2
None

Friends

Relatives

Work colleagues

Partner/special friend

Other

33

Section 6

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 5: First sexual relationship

Evidence suggests that the nature of the first partner and the circumstances of sexual initiation may
have a lasting influence on subsequent sexual conduct. Hence this section deals exclusively with
this topic.

Filter 5.1

This is an important filter. Some respondents first experienced intercourse with their
current or most recent girl/boyfriend and this entire section is therefore redundant

34

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 5: First sexual relationship

5.1

SEE 3.24

ALL OTHERS

CURRENT (MOST RECENT)

GIRL/BOY FRIEND WAS
FIRST SEXUAL PARTNER

5.2

Now I have some question about the first time that

you had sexual intercourse. How old were you at
that time?

AGE

5.3

What is her/his first name?

Name:_________________________
D.K

SECTION 6

In the following questions, use "that person" instead

of NAME if name of first partner is not known
5.4

How would describe your relationship to NAME (that

person)? PROBE

Boy/girl friend
Stranger/relative/other person
who forced me
One night stand
Commercial sex partner

1
2
3
4

5.5

How old is NAME? Probe for current age

Age

5.6

When you started your relationship, was NAME

single, married, divorced or separated?

Single
Married
Divorce
Separated

1
2
3
4

5.7

When you started you relationship with NAME was

NAME a full time student, working or neither?

Full time student

Working
Neither

1
2
3

5.8

How many months or years ago did you first 'date'

NAME?

Months
Ago

or Years
ago

How many months or years were there between the

time you started your relationship and the time you
first had sex with NAME?

Months
Ago

or Years
ago

5.9

Has the relationship ended?

5.10 How many days/weeks/months did it last? I mean

from the first time you 'dated' to the last time?

Yes
No
Days
Or
Weeks
Or
Months

35

1
2

5.16
5.15

5.12

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

5.11 Who decided to end the relationship? You, NAME or

both of you.

Me
NAME
Both
Other

1
2
3
4

5.12 During the time you were 'dating' NAME did you
'date' anyone else?

Yes
No

1
2

5.13 At that time how would you describe your

relationship with NAME? Was (is) it (a) a casual
friendship; (b) a serious relationship but with no
intention of marriage; or (c) an important relationship
that might lead to marriage?

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)

Casual
Serious
Important/might lead to marriage
Engaged to be married

1
2
3
4

5.14 And how do you think NAME would describe her

(his) relationship to you? (a) as a casual friendship;
(b) a serious relationship but with no intention of
marriage; (c) an important relationship that might
lead to marriage?

(a) Casual
(b) Serious
(c) Important/might lead to marriage

1
2
3

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)

1
2
3
4
5

5.15 Think back to the first time you had sex with NAME
- I mean the first time that the penis was in the
vagina. Would you say.
(a) I forced NAME to have intercourse against
her/his will
(b) I persuaded NAME to have intercourse
(c) NAME persuaded me to have intercourse
(d) NAME forced me to have intercourse
(e) We were both equally willing

I forced
I persuaded
NAME persuaded
NAME forced
Both willing

5.16 And would you say it was planned or unexpected?

Planned
Unexpected

5.17 Did you regret having intercourse with NAME on that

first time?

Yes
1
No
2
If yes, WHY ..

5.18 On that first time did you or NAME do anything to

avoid a pregnancy?

Yes
No

1
2

5.19 What method did you use?

Condom
Pill
Injection
Withdrawal
Safe period
Other..

1
2
3
4
5
6

36

5.26

1
2

5.20

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

5.20 Did you ever dicuss contraception with NAME? IF

YES Did you discuss contraception before or after
you first had intercourse?

Before first intercourse

After first intercourse
Never

1
2
3

5.21 How many times did you and NAME have full
intercourse? (estimate)

No.
Once only

5.26

5.22 Apart from the first time, did you and NAME ever use
a method to avoid pregnancy? IF YES Always or
sometimes?

Always
Sometimes
Never

1
2
3

5.25

5.23 What method did you and NAME mostly use?

Condom
Pill
Injection
Withdrawal
Safe period
Other..

1
2
3
4
5
6

5.24 Where did you or NAME get this method? (CIRCLE

ONLY ONE)

Shop
Pharmacy
Clinic/Health Centre/Hospital
Private Doctor/Nurse/Clinic
Friend
Other..
(Specify)

1
2
3
4
5
6

5.25 SEE Q. 5.22 Whose decision was it to use a

method always/sometimes/never? Was it mainly
you decision, NAME'S decision or a joint decision?

My decision
NAME decision
Joint decision

1
2
3

5.26 MALES: Did NAME ever become pregnant by you?

Yes
No

1
2

5.27 What happened to the pregnancy?

Currently pregnant
Abortion
Miscarriage
Live-birth

1
2
3
4

5.28 Were you ever concerned that you might catch AIDS
or another sexually transmitted disease from NAME?
IF YES Very or somewhat?

Very concerned
Somewhat concerned
Not concerned

1
2
3

5.28

FEMALES: Did you ever become pregnant by

NAME?

37

SECTION 6

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

5.29 Did you do anything to reduce the risk of infection?

Yes
No

1
2

5.30 What did you do? Probe

Use condoms
Take medicines
Other (..)

1
2
3

38

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 6: Homosexual experiences

Depending on local circumstances this short section on homosexual experiences may be expanded
or removed. The recommended questions reflect the fact that male-to-male sex carries a much
greater disease-risk than woman-to-woman sex.
Q 6.1-6.4
Need to remind interviewers that these questions relate to homosexual experiences
and questions to boys must ask about relationships with other boys, and questions to girls must
ask about relationships with other girls.

39

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 6: Homosexual experiences

6.1

Some young people are sexually attracted to people

of the same sex. Have you ever been sexually
attracted to a boy/girl?

Yes
No

1
2

6.2

Have you ever had any sexual contact, such as

hugging or touching, with a boy/girl?

Yes
No

1
2

6.3

Has a boy / girl ever stroked your penis/vagina so

that you climaxed?

Yes
No

1
2

6.4

Have you ever stroked a boy/girl in this way?

Yes
No

1
2

6.5

RESPONDENT IS MALE

RESPONDENT IS FEMALE

6.6

Has a boy or man ever had sexual intercourse with

you? I mean inserted his penis into you?

Yes
No

How many boys or men have ever had sexual

intercourse with you?

No.

6.7

On these occasion, would you say that your

partner(s) have never used a condom, used a
condom sometimes, or always?

6.8

6.9

6.10
1
2

Never

Sometimes

Always

Have you ever had sexual intercourse with a boy or

man? I mean inserted your penis into a boy or
man?

Yes
No

1
2

How many boys or men have you had sexual

intercourse with?

No.

On these occasion, have you never used a condom,

used a condom sometimes, or always?

6.10 Would you say that you are mostly attracted to

people of the opposite sex, more attracted to people
of the same sex, or attracted to both sexes equally?

Never

Sometimes

Always

Opposite sex
Same sex
Both equally

1
2
3

40

6.10

6.8

6.10

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 7: Knowledge and ever-use of contraceptive methods

Knowledge of contraception and supply sources is a precondition for adoption of pregnancyprotection means. In Q 7.2-7.7 detailed information is elicited about each of the main methods that
young people might use. Less appropriate methods (sterilization, IUD, implant) and uncommon
methods, such as jellies/foams, are addressed in a more summary way (see 7.8). While knowledge
of individual methods (and sources) is of interest, these data can also be summarized at the analysis
stage i.e. number of methods known.
More detailed questions on condoms may be found in Section 9 but investigators may wish to
measure knowledge of how oral contraceptive should be used (e.g. what to do if one pill is forgotten)
in settings where this method is common.

Q 7.5

Note that this method may be unknown (unavailable) in some countries)

Q 7.7

Note that Q2.12 provides at least a partial measure of the respondent's

understanding of this method.

41

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 7: Knowledge and ever-use of contraceptive methods

7.1

I now have some questions about contraception - I mean ways in which men and women can avoid
getting pregnant. Which methods have you heard of? What others?
CIRCLE CODE 1 IN COL. 2 FOR EACH METHOD MENTIONED.
FOR EACH METHOD IN THE TABLE NOT ALREADY MENTIONED, READ THE DESCRIPTION IN
COL.1 AND RECORD ANSWER IN COL.2
FOR EACH METHOD KNOWN ASK QUESTION IN COL.3
COL 1.

7.2

7.3

Pill

Knowledge of Method

Women can take a pill every day

Yes (spont.)
Yes (prompted)
No

1
2
3

Yes (spont.)
Yes (prompted)
No

1
2
3

Yes (spont.)
Yes (prompted)
No

1
2
3

Yes (spont.)
Yes (prompted)
No

1
2
3

Yes (spont.)
Yes (prompted)
No

1
2
3

Withdrawal
A man can pull out of a woman
before climax

7.7

Yes (spont.)
Yes (prompted)
No

Emergency Contraceptive Pills

A woman can take pills soon
after intercourse

7.6

1
2
3

Condom
A man can put a rubber device
on his penis before intercourse

7.5

COL. 3.

Injection
Women can have an injection
every 2 or every 3 months

7.4

COL. 2.

Periodic Abstinence/Rhythm
A couple can avoid sex on days
when pregnancy is most likely to
occur.

42

Knowledge of Source
"Do you know any place or person
where young people could obtain
this method?
Yes
1
No
2
"Do you know any place or person
where young people could obtain
this method?
Yes
1
No

"Do you know any place or person

where young people could obtain
this method?
Yes
1
No

"Do you know any place or person

where young people could obtain
this method?
Yes
1
No

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

7.8

There are other methods of contraception that I have

not mentioned. What other methods have you heard
of? CIRCLE EACH METHOD MENTIONED.

IUD
Implant
Jelly/foam
Female Sterilization
Male Sterilization
Other (SPECIFY)..

1
2
3
4
5
6

7.9

Which method do you think is most suitable for

young people?

Pill
injection
Condom
Emerg. Pills
Withdrawal
Periodic. Ab.
Other ..
D.K.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

CIRCLE ONE ANSWER

7.10 SEE Q4.12 and 4.13 ON PAGE 12

Respondent has
experienced sexual
intercourse
7.11 Which methods of contraception have you or a
sexual partner ever used?
PROBE which others?
CIRCLE ALL THAT APPLY

Respondent has not

experienced sexual
intercourse
Pill
injection
Condom
Emerg. Pills
Withdrawal
Periodic. Ab.
Other ..

43

SECTION 8

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 8: Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases

Indication of knowledge of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections are measured in this
section. In settings where HIV is common, investigators should consider the addition of extra
questions, such as knowledge of HIV infected relatives/friends, and attitudes to voluntary testing.
Beliefs about HIV/AIDS
Q 8.2-8.4

This three-item list can be expanded and many model questionnaires contain
examples of questions.

Q 8.5

To overcome reluctance to report knowledge, investigators might consider giving

examples. Local terms should be used.

Q 8.7

The pre-coded responses should be adapted to local circumstances.

If preliminary investigations suggest that reporting of sexually transmitted infections will be

reasonably common, additional information may be collected on (a) delay between noticing
symptoms and treatment (b) cost of treatment (c) quality of treatment (e.g. examination, advice about
condoms, partner notification) (d) sexual behaviour during treatment.

44

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 8: Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases

8.1

Have you heard of HIV or AIDS (use local terms)?

Yes
No

I am now going to read you some statements about

HIV/AIDS. Please tell me whether you think the
statement is true, or false, or whether you don't know.

1
2

True

False

Don't know

8.2

It is possible to cure AIDS

8.3

A person with HIV always looks emaciated or

unhealthy in some way

8.4

People can take a simple test to find out whether

they have HIV

8.5

Apart from HIV/AIDS, there are other diseases that

men and women can catch by having sexual
intercourse. Have you heard of any of these
diseases?

Yes
No

1
2

What are the signs and symptoms of a sexually

transmitted disease in a man? PROBE

Discharge from penis

Pain during urination
Ulcers/sores in genital area
Other
Other

1
2
3

D.K. any signs

Vaginal discharge
Pain during urination
Ulcers/sores in genital area
Other
Other

1
2
3

D.K. any signs

Shop
Pharmacy
Govt. hospital/health centre/clinic
Private doctor/nurse/clinic
Other (SPECIFY)

1
2
3
4
5

8.6

CIRCLE EACH MENTIONED

8.7

8.8

And what are the signs or symptoms when a woman

is infected?

If a friend of yours needed treatment for a sexually

transmitted disease, where could he or she obtain
such treatment? PROBE Any other places?
CIRCLE EACH MENTIONED

45

8.5

SECTION 9

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

8.9

SEE Q 4.12 and 4.13 ON PAGE 12

Respondent has experienced
Sexual intercourse

8.10 Have you ever had a sexually transmitted disease?

Respondent has not experienced

Sexual intercourse

SECTION 9

Once
More than once
Never

1
2
3

SECTION 9

Yes
No

1
2

8.13

8.12 Where did you seek treatment?

Shop
Pharmacy
Govt. hospital/health centre/clinic
Private doctor/nurse/clinic
Other

1
2
3
4
5

8.13 Did your sexual partner (any of your partners) also

obtain treatment?

Yes
No
Don't know

1
2
3

IF YES Once or more than once?

8.11 (On the last occasion) did you seek treatment?

46

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 9: Condom knowledge and attitudes

An entire section is devoted to condoms because of the unique importance of this method in offering
a degree of dual protection against pregnancy and against infection.
Q 9.6-9.18

measure both beliefs about condoms and attitudes to their use. Q. 9.6, 9.7, 9.10,
9.16 and 9.18 measure knowledge about the properties of condoms and answers
could be combined to form a summary score. But note that the correct answer for
some questions (9.6, 9.10, 9.18) is AGREE, and for the others (9.7, 9.16) is
DISAGREE. Therefore, before combining the responses to produce an overall
knowledge score, the codings for 9.7 and 9.16 should be reversed.

47

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 9: Condom knowledge and attitudes

9.1

SEE Q.7.4 ON PAGE 18

CONDOMS KNOWN

9.2

9.3

9.4

9.5

CONDOMS NOT KNOWN

SECTION 10

SEE Q4.12 AND 4.13 ON PAGE 12

Respondent has experienced
sexual intercourse

Respondent has not

experienced sexual
intercourse

Have you or a partner ever used a condom?

Yes
No

1
2

9.6

Have you ever experienced a condom that split or

broke during intercourse?

Yes
No

1
2

9.6

Have you ever seen a condom?

Yes
No

1
2

People have different opinions about condoms. I will read

out some opinions. For each one, I want you to tell me
whether you agree or disagree, or whether you don't know

9.5

Agree

Don't
know/not sure

Disagree

9.6

Condoms are an effective method of preventing

pregnancy

9.7

Condoms can be used more than once

9.8

A girl can suggest to her boyfriend that he use a

condom

9.9

A boy can suggest to his girlfriend that he use a

condom

9.10 Condoms are an effective way of protecting against

HIV/AIDS

9.11 Condoms are suitable for casual relationships

9.12 Condoms are suitable for steady, loving

relationships

9.13 It would be too embarrassing for someone like me to

buy or obtain condoms

9.14 If a girl suggested using condoms to her partner, it

would mean that she didn't trust him

48

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

9.15 Condoms reduce sexual pleasure

9.16 Condoms can slip off the man and disappear inside
the woman's body

9.17 If unmarried couples want to have sexual

intercourse before marriage, they should use
condoms

9.18 Condoms are an effective way of protecting against

sexually transmitted diseases

49

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 10: Sexuality, gender and norms

This section explores gender-related norms towards pre-marital sex, coercion/violence, and
protection mechanisms. Much of the analytic interest will lie in simple comparisons of responses by
sex and age of respondent. For better educated study populations, investigators should consider
using 5-point or even 7-point scales instead of the simple 3-point scale in the illustrative
questionnaire. This modification will offer more scope for the application of statistical techniques
such as principal component analysis. Whether or not this modification is made, careful adaptation
of the individual questions, and their phrasing, is essential.

50

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 10: Sexuality, gender and norms

Young people have various views about relationships. I
will read you out some views. For each one, please tell
me whether you agree or disagree?
10.1 I believe it's all right for unmarried boys and girls to
have dates (USE LOCAL TERM)

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.2 I believe it's all right for boys and girls to kiss, hug
and touch each other.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.3 I believe there is nothing wrong with unmarried

boys and girls having sexual intercourse if they love
each other.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.4 I think that sometimes a boy has to force a girl to

have sex if he loves her.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.5 A boy will not respect a girl who agrees to have sex
with him.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.6 Most girls who have sex before marriage regret it

afterwards.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.7 Most boys who have sex before marriage regret it

afterwards.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.8 A boy and a girl should have sex before they

become engaged (USE LOCAL TERM) to see
whether they are suited to each other.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.9 I believe that girls should remain virgins until they

marry.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.10 I believe that boys should remain virgins until they

marry.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.11 It is sometimes justifiable for a boy to hit his

girlfriend.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

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Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

10.12 Most of my friends think that one-night stands are

OK.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.13 It's all right for boys and girls to have sex with each
other provided that they use methods to stop
pregnancy.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.14 Moat of my friends who have sex with someone

use condoms regularly.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.15 I am confident that I can insist on condom use

every time I have sex.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.16 I would never contemplate having an abortion my

self or for my partner.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.17 It is mainly the woman's responsibility to ensure

that contraception is used regularly.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.18 I think that you should be in love with someone

before having sex with them.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.19 I feel that I know how to use a condom properly.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.20 Most of my friends would never contemplate having

an abortion for themselves or their partner.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.21 Men need sex more frequently than do women

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.22 Most of my friends believe that you should be in

love before you have sex with someone.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.23 I would refuse to have sex with someone who is not

prepared to use a condom.

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

52

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

10.24 One night stands are OK

Agree
Dont know/not sure
Disagree

1
2
3

10.25 How many of your friends have had sexual

intercourse? Would you say many, some, a few, or
none?

Many
Some
A few
None
Not sure

1
2
3
4
8

53

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 11: Use and perceptions of health services

This section on use of health facilities will require thorough review and adaptation to the local service
environment. In settings where special services exist for young people (e.g. drop-in clinics, school
clinics), additional questions will be needed to measure use of such services.

54

Part 2 - Illustrative Questionnaire for interview-Surveys with Young People

Section 11: Use and perceptions of health services

11.1 Have you ever visited a health facility or doctor of
any kind to receive services or information on
contraception, pregnancy, abortion or sexually
transmitted dieases?

Yes
No

1
2

END

11.2 How many times have you sought services or

information from a doctor or a nurse for these
services in the last twelve months?

Number of times
Did not seek care in last 12 months

END

11.3 Thinking about your last visit, did you go to a

government clinic, health centre or hospital or a
private doctor or clinic?

Government
Private
Other.

1
2
3

11.4 When you last saw a doctor or a nurse, what was

your reason for going?

Contraception
STD
Gynaecological exam
Pregnancy test
Pregnancy termination
MCH
Other

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

11.5 At this facility

YES

NO

11.6 Were you given brochures on contraception?

11.7 Did you attend a talk on contraception?

11.8 Did you request contraceptive services during the

consultation?

YES
1
1
1

NO
2
2
2

11.10 Did you feel comfortable enough to ask questions?

11.11 Were the questions you asked during the

consultation answered adequately?

11.12 Was there enough confidentiality?

Did you see any posters on contraception?

11.9 Did the doctor or nurse talk to you about:

(a) Contraception?
(b) Sexually transmitted diseases?
(c) Pregnancy?

END

55

11.12