Adolescent girls’ perceived readiness for sex in Central Uganda - liminal transitions and implications for sexual and reproductive health interventions
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Date
2022-03
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Abstract
Young women in Uganda are at risk of negative sexual and
reproductive health outcomes, in part because of sex with older
men. Theoretically grounded in the concept of liminality, this
paper examines perceived markers of adolescent girls’ suitability
for sexual activity. In 2014, we conducted 19 focus group discussions and 44 in-depth interviews in two communities in Uganda.
Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured tool, audiorecorded and transcribed verbatim. Interviews examined markers
of transition between childhood, adolescence and adulthood and
how these were seen as relating to girls’ perceived readiness
for sex. Analysis was thematic. Pre-liminal status was most often
accorded to childhood. Sex with a child was strongly condemned.
Physical changes during puberty and children’s increasing responsibility, autonomy and awakening sexuality reflected a liminal stage
during which girls and young women were not necessarily seen as
children and were increasingly described as suitable for sex. Being
over 18, leaving home, and occupying ‘adult’ spaces reflected
post-liminal status and perceived appropriateness for sexual activity
including for girls under the age of 18. Interventions that seek to
prevent early sexual debut and sexual activity with older men have
the potential to reduce sexual and reproductive health risks.
Description
Keywords
Childhood; adolescence; adulthood; liminal transitions; readiness for sex; Uganda
Citation
Kyegombe, Nambusi, Ana Maria Buller, Rebecca Meiksin, et al. 'Adolescent Girls' Perceived Readiness for Sex in Central Uganda - Liminal Transitions and Implications for Sexual and Reproductive Health Interventions', Culture, Health & Sexuality, vol. 24/no. 3, (2022), pp. 391-405.