Acceptance of violence amongst female learners in rural high schools of Kwazulu Natal

Gender is a culture-specific construct, and the unequal power balance in gender relations that favours males has been shown to be associated with the transmission of HIV/AIDS. This qualitative study explored the views of female high school learners in Kwazulu Natal (KZN) about gender and sexual relations. The author finds that despite the South African Constitution offering equal rights for women, young females perceive males as in control, with the right to make decisions about relationships and sexual practices.

The author highlights how the high rates of HIV among young women emphasise the importance of targeting gender disparities. The high prevalence of teenage pregnancy confirms that many young women are sexually active and not practicing safe sex. Programmes that aim to reduce the prevalence of HIV/AIDS must take cognizance of, and begin to address the gender disparities highlighted in this paper, that place females at risk of infection.

Other areas considered in this paper include:

• family environment, influence and love relationships
• local community
• males and manhood
• young people’s relationships
• male dominance and sexuality