| Short Summary | | Title | Metaphors We Love By: Conceptualizations of Sex among Young People in Malawi | | Author | Undie, C., Crichton, J. and Zulu, E. | | Publication Date | December 2007 | | Publisher | Bioline International | | Summary | How do young people in Malawi conceptualise sexuality and sexual relations, and on what basis do they understand risks involved in sexual activities and make behavioural decisions? This study aimed to analyse personal narratives around these issues, based on the premise that incorporating young people's language and manners of self-expression would increase the accessibility of sexuality education. Eleven focus group discussions were held with 114 Malawian teenagers aged 14-19 years. Participants were asked to describe their behaviour, attitudes, and motivations to reduce unplanned pregnancies and the spread of HIV/AIDS. The results show that young Malawians use metaphors to explain sexual activity, and that these tend to focus on the mechanics of sexual actions or the use of sexual organs, with less attention given to experiential, interpersonal, or social aspects of these actions. For example, young women referred to female genitalia as 'doors' - objects that can be opened or closed. Young men were attracted to the idea of being the first to open these 'doors', valuing female partners who have had the least sexual partners. Male genitalia were objectified in similar ways, using metaphors that suggested both men and women participants viewed sex as a natural and routine activity for which pleasure and passion are essential components. Further examples are given, including around preferences for unprotected sex and for sexual intercourse itself. The paper concludes that future research and prevention efforts around sexuality should incorporate adolescents' language in programming as this can enhance understanding of young people as well as the effectiveness of interventions addressing problems related to early sexual behaviour.
| | Complete Document |  http://www.bioline.org.br/pdf?rh07044 | | |
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