THE PRACTICE OF VIRGINITY TESTING

Virginity testing is a practice that has stimulated lots of discussions amongst people from various perspectives. Controversies around this practice have necessitated further research in order to bring the voice of girls into the virginity testing debate. The aim of the book was to explore perceptions and experiences of girls on the practice of virginity testing. Triangulation of qualitative data collective method was used. The researcher informally engaged in key informants¿ interviews with stakeholders who participate in the practice attended virginity testing celebration to observe the proceedings and processes conducted during the practice. Focus group discussions were conducted. Data was analyzed using NVIVO. Results: Elders, in particular mothers, encouraged participation of girls in virginity testing. Girls observed and sighted benefits, ranging from viz: HIV/STI prevention, societal recognition and acceptance, purity before marriage and delay of sexual debut. Non participation was attributed to the in availability of virginity testing practices the areas. Concerns of doggy behaviors by testers, uneducated testers of testers, compromised health standards were discussed.