1.  Peer Reviewed Title: The prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission programme in Lilongwe, Malawi: why do so many women drop out. Author: Chinkonde JR; Sundby J; Martinson F Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2009 May;17(33):143-151. Abstract: Mother-to-child transmission of HIV constitutes a substantial burden of new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa, and losses to follow-up continue to undermine prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) programmes. This qualitative study sought to clarify why some women who were enrolled in a PMTCT programme in Lilongwe, Malawi, did not fully participate in follow-up visits in the first six months after testing HIV-positive. Twenty-eight women, 14 who participated fully in the programme and 14 who dropped out, were purposively selected for in-depth interview at two clinics. Focus group discussions with 15 previously interviewed and 13 newly recruited women were also conducted. Discussions with 12 of the women's husbands were also carried out. Although the proportion of women being tested has reportedly increased, losses to follow-up have shifted and are occurring at every step after testing. Major emerging themes associated with dropping out of the PMTCT programme within six months after delivery were to avoid involuntary HIV disclosure and negative community reactions, unequal gender relations, difficulties accessing care and treatment, and lack of support from husbands. The whole approach to the delivery of the PMTCT programme and home visits must be reconsidered, to improve confidentiality and minimise stigmatization. Women need to be empowered economically and supported to access HIV treatment and care with their partners, to benefit their whole family. Spanish Abstract: En África subsahariana, gran parte de nuevas infecciones por VIH se deben a la transmisión materno-infantil, y las pérdidas de seguimiento continúan socavando los programas de prevención de la transmisión materno-infantil del VIH (PTMI). El objetivo de este estudio cualitativo era aclarar por qué algunas de las mujeres inscritas en un programa de PTMI en Lilongwe, Malaui, no participaron al máximo en las consultas de control durante los primeros seis meses posteriores a haber sido diagnosticadas VIH-positivas. Se seleccionaron 28 mujeres para entrevistas a profundidad en dos clínicas: 14 participaron al máximo en el programa y 14 lo abandonaron. Además, se realizaron discusiones en grupos focales con 15 mujeres entrevistadas anteriormente y 13 recién reclutadas, así como discusiones con 12 de los esposos. Aunque la proporción de mujeres que se someten a la prueba del VIH ha aumentado, las pérdidas de seguimiento continúan ocurriendo en cada paso posterior a las pruebas. Los principales motivos emergentes asociados con abandonar el programa de PTMI dentro de los seis meses posteriores al parto fueron: para evitar la divulgación involuntaria del estado de VIH y reacciones negativas de la comunidad, relaciones desiguales entre los sexos, dificultades accediendo a los servicios y el tratamiento, y la falta de apoyo del esposo. Para mejorar la confidencialidad y minimizar el estigma, es necesario reconsiderar la estrategia de ejecución del programa y las visitas a domicilio. Las mujeres necesitan autonomía económica y apoyo para poder acceder al tratamiento y los servicios de VIH con sus parejas, a fin de beneficiar a toda su familia. French Abstract: La transmission mère-enfant du VIH représente une part importante des nouvelles infections en Afrique subsaharienne et les pertes du suivi continuent de saper les programmes de prévention de la transmission mère-enfant (PTME). Cette étude qualitative souhaitait déterminer pourquoi certaines participantes d'un programme de PTME à Lilongwe, Malawi, avaient manqué des visites de suivi les six premiers mois après avoir découvert leur séropositivité lors d'un dépistage. Vingt-huit femmes – 14 participant pleinement au programme et 14 l'ayant abandonné – ont fait l'objet d'un entretien approfondi dans deux dispensaires. Des discussions en groupe avec 15 femmes interrogées précédemment et 13 nouvelles recrues ont aussi été organisées, de même qu'avec 12 conjoints des femmes. Bien que la proportion déclarée de femmes se faisant dépister ait augmenté, les pertes pour le suivi ont évolué et se produisent désormais à toutes les étapes après le test. Les principales raisons de l'abandon du programme de PTME dans les six mois après l'accouchement étaient la crainte d'une révélation involontaire de la séropositivité et des réactions communautaires négatives, le manque de parité entre les sexes, les difficultés d'accès aux soins et au traitement, et le soutien insuffisant des maris. Toute l'approche de l'application du programme de PTME et des visites à domicile doit être revue, pour améliorer la confidentialité et minimiser la stigmatisation. Il faut donner aux femmes les moyens économiques de s'autonomiser et les aider à avoir accès au traitement et aux soins du VIH avec leur partenaire et leurs enfants ce qui profitera à toute la famille. Language: English Keywords: MALAWI | RESEARCH REPORT | FOCUS GROUPS | PREGNANT WOMEN | DROPOUTS | PREVENTION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | INTERVIEWS | HOME VISITS | FEAR | STIGMA | CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION | GENDER RELATIONS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Programs | Organization and Administration | Disease Transmission Control | Prevention and Control | Diseases | Communication | Emotions | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Ethics | Gender Issues | Program Evaluation Document Number: 342023 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Gendered empowerment and HIV prevention: policy and programmatic pathways to success in the MENA region. Author: Dworkin SL; Kambou SD; Sutherland C; Moalla K; Kapoor A Source: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2009 Jul 1;51 Suppl 3:S111-8. Abstract: Although HIV in the Middle East and North Africa is currently characterized as a low seroprevalence epidemic, there are numerous factors that are present in the region that could prevent-or exacerbate-the epidemic. The time to invest substantially in prevention-and gender-specific prevention in particular-is now. Given that most policy makers do not make gender-specific plans as epidemics progress, our research team-which draws upon expertise from both within and outside the region-worked together to make programmatic and policy suggestions in the Middle East and North Africa region in 5 key areas: (1) gender-specific and gender transformative HIV prevention interventions; (2) access to quality education and improvements in life skills and sex education; (3) economic empowerment; (4) property rights; and (5) antiviolence. In short, this work builds upon many ongoing efforts in the region and elucidates some of the links between gendered empowerment and health outcomes around the world, particularly HIV and AIDS. Language: English Keywords: MIDDLE EAST | AFRICA, NORTH | RESEARCH REPORT | GENDER RELATIONS | HIV PREVENTION | INTERVENTIONS | HEALTH POLICY | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Africa | Developing Countries | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration | Policy | Political Factors | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 342681 |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender, empowerment, and health: what is it? How does it work? Author: Ehrhardt AA; Sawires S; McGovern T; Peacock D; Weston M Source: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2009 Jul 1;51 Suppl 3:S96-S105. Abstract: As the HIV/AIDS epidemic has progressed, the role of gender inequality in its transmission has become increasingly apparent. Nearly half of those living with the virus worldwide are women, and women's subordination to men increases their risk of infection and makes it harder for them to access treatment once infected. Men, too, suffer from harmful gender norms-the expectation that they will behave in ways that heighten their risk of HIV infection and that they will be cavalier about seeking health care increases their vulnerability to the disease. In the Middle East and North Africa, HIV infection rates are low, but changing gender norms have the potential to accelerate the spread of the disease if gender inequality is not addressed. Improving women's education, workforce participation, and social and political opportunities is crucial to strengthening health in the region. Work with men to shift gender imbalances is a further important task for the region's policy-makers and civil society groups. Language: English Keywords: MIDDLE EAST | AFRICA, NORTH | RESEARCH REPORT | WOMEN | GENDER RELATIONS | INEQUALITIES | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | Africa | Developing Countries | Demographic Factors | Population | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Women's Status Document Number: 342677 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: Milking the cow: young women's construction of identity and risk in age-disparate transactional sexual relationships in Maputo, Mozambique. Author: Hawkins K; Price N; Mussa F Source: Global Public Health. 2009 Mar;4(2):169-82. Abstract: This study employed peer ethnography to explore young women's construction of social identity and risk within age-disparate transactional sexual relationships in Maputo, Mozambique. Peer ethnography is a rapid approach based upon training members of the target group to carry out in-depth qualitative interviews with their peers. The study highlighted young women's perception of agency and power in these relationships. Through a strategy of using their sexuality to extract financial and material resources from men, young women construct a positive identity and esteem linked to perceptions of modernity and consumption and their ability to access consumer goods. Current behavior change HIV prevention messages have little meaning in relation to young women's perceived goals, in a context in which conditions offer few opportunities and limited hope for a secure economic future. Language: English Keywords: MOZAMBIQUE | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | WOMEN | YOUTH | TRANSACTIONAL SEX | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | POWER | RISK BEHAVIOR | INTERVIEWS | GENDER RELATIONS | AGE FACTORS | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Sex Behavior | Behavior | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Data Collection | Gender Issues Document Number: 341396 |
| 5. Title: Striving to make a difference: health care worker experiences with intimate partner violence clients in Tanzania. Author: Laisser RM; Lugina HI; Lindmark G; Nystrom L; Emmelin M Source: Health Care For Women International. 2009;30(1-2):64-78. Abstract: In this article we describe health care workers' (HCWs') experiences and perceptions of meeting clients exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV). Qualitative content analysis of in-depth interviews from 16 informants resulted in four main themes. The first, "internalizing women's suffering and powerlessness," describes HCWs' perceptions of violence, relating it to gender relations. The second, "caught between encouraging disclosure and lack of support tools," refers to views on possibilities for transparency and openness. The third, "Why bother? A struggle to manage with limited resources," illustrates the consequences of a heavy workload. Last; "striving to make a difference," emphasizes a desire to improve abilities to support clients and advocate for prevention. Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | CLIENTS | SEXUAL PARTNERS | VIOLENCE | ADVOCACY | GENDER RELATIONS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Communication | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Diseases Document Number: 341005 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Managing men: women's dilemmas about overt and covert use of barrier methods for HIV prevention. Author: Macphail C; Terris-Prestholt F; Kumaranayake L; Ngoako P; Watts C; Rees H Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2009 May 27;:1. Abstract: Women in sub-Saharan Africa are at high risk of HIV infection and may struggle to negotiate condom use. This has led to a focus on the development of female-controlled barrier methods such as the female condom, microbicides and the diaphragm. One of the advantages of such products is their contribution to female empowerment through attributes that make covert use possible. We used focus groups to discuss covert use of barrier methods with a sample of South African women aged 18-50 years from Eastern Johannesburg. Women's attitudes towards covert use of HIV prevention methods were influenced by the overarching themes of male dislike of HIV and pregnancy prevention methods, the perceived untrustworthiness of men and social interpretations of female faithfulness. Women's discussions ranged widely from overt to covert use of barrier methods for HIV prevention and were influenced by partner characteristics and previous experience with contraception and HIV prevention. The discussions indicate that challenging gender norms for HIV prevention can be achieved in quite subtle ways, in a manner that suits individual women's relationships and previous experiences with negotiation of either HIV or pregnancy prevention. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOCUS GROUPS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SEXUAL PARTNERS | URBAN POPULATION | HIV PREVENTION | BARRIER METHODS | ATTITUDES | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | PERCEPTION | GENDER RELATIONS | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Psychological Factors | Interpersonal Relations | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341491 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Relationship dynamics and consistency of condom use among adolescents. Author: Manning WD; Flanigan CM; Giordano PC; Longmore MA Source: Perspectives On Sexual and Reproductive Health. 2009 Sep;41(3):181-90. Abstract: CONTEXT: Research on adolescent condom use often focuses on the influence of parents, peers and environmental factors. Although most sexually active teenagers have sex within dating relationships, little is known about associations between the characteristics of these relationships and consistency of condom use. METHODS: Data on 269 participants in Wave 1 of the Toledo Adolescent Relationships Study who had had sex in their current or most recent dating relationship were analyzed in logistic regression models to examine how positive and negative relationship qualities are associated with consistent condom use. RESULTS: Among teenagers who had had sex with their dating partner, both negative relationship dynamics (conflict, partner's controlling behavior, mistrust, jealousy, perceived partner inferiority) and positive qualities (love, enmeshment, salience, self-disclosure) were negatively associated with consistent condom use (odds ratios, 0.7-0.9). Asymmetries in partners' age, race and school were not related to consistent condom use. Relationship duration was negatively associated with consistency (0.98-0.99), but the association was explained by feelings of relationship importance. Findings for relationship qualities were similar for males and females, with the exception of conflict, which was positively associated with consistent condom use among females but not males. CONCLUSIONS: Although the relationship processes associated with consistent condom use are complex, such processes appeared to be more strongly associated with consistent condom use than were social and demographic characteristics. Programs should focus on relationship qualities and dynamics, recognizing that both negative and positive relationship features are associated with consistent condom use. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA ANALYSIS | ADOLESCENTS | CONDOM USE | SEX BEHAVIOR | GENDER RELATIONS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Risk Reduction Behavior | Behavior | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 342712 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender norms in South Africa: implications for HIV and pregnancy prevention among African and Indian women students at a South African tertiary institution. Author: Mantell JE; Needham SL; Smit JA; Hoffman S; Cebekhulu Q Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2009 Feb;11(2):139-157. Abstract: In post-Apartheid South Africa, women are constitutionally guaranteed protections and freedoms that were previously unknown to them. These freedoms may have positive implications for women's ability to negotiate sexual protection with partners and hence prevent unintended pregnancy and decrease their risk of HIV. Among tertiary institution students, who are a relatively 'privileged' group, there is little information on gender norms that might shape responses to HIVprevention programmes. To elicit gender norms regarding women's and men's roles, condom and contraceptive use, sexual communication and sexual pleasure, we conducted 10 semi-structured focus group discussions with African and Indian female tertiary institution students in order to understand how norms might be used to buttress HIV- and pregnancy-prevention. Participants reported dramatic changes in the structure of gender norms and relations with the formal recognition of women's rights in the post-Apartheid context. These generational shifts in norms are supported by other research in South Africa. At the same time, women recognized the co-existence of traditional constructions of gender that operate to constrain women's freedom. The perceived changes that have taken place provide an entry point for intervention, particularly for reinforcing emerging gender norms that promote women's protection against unintended pregnancy and HIV/STIs. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | FOCUS GROUPS | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | WOMEN | ASIANS | ETHNIC GROUPS | STUDENTS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | UNIVERSITIES | VALUE ORIENTATION | GENDER RELATIONS | HIV PREVENTION | PREGNANCY | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Comparative Studies | Studies | Demographic Factors | Population | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Education | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Schools | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Reproduction Document Number: 341087 |
| 9. Peer Reviewed Title: STD/AIDS prevention in Portuguese-speaking Africa: a review of the recent literature in the social sciences and health. Author: Monteiro S Source: Cadernos De Saude Publica. 2009 Mar;25(3):680-6. Abstract: The article reviews academic literature in the social sciences and health on the problems and challenges of STD/AIDS prevention in Portuguese-speaking African countries. Based on a bibliographic survey of the SciELO, PubMed, and Sociological Abstracts databases between 1997 and 2007, the research under review was organized into two groups, according to content. The first group of studies sought to understand STD/AIDS vulnerability among social groups by examining local cultural and socioeconomic factors as related to gender dynamics, sexuality, color/race, religion and health care. The second group encompassed critical assessments of shortcomings in the STD/AIDS educational messages delivered by governments and international agencies. Attention is called to the way in which the presence of traditional medicine systems and the occurrence of civil wars in the post-colonial period impact the STD/AIDS epidemic in the African countries under study. Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | MOZAMBIQUE | ANGOLA | GUINEA-BISSAU | CAPE VERDE | SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE | RESEARCH REPORT | LITERATURE REVIEW | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | SEXUALITY | ETHNIC GROUPS | RELIGION | HEALTH SERVICES | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PREVENTION | AIDS PREVENTION | GENDER RELATIONS | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa, Western | Economic Factors | Personality | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Gender Issues Document Number: 342665 |
| 10. Title: Impact of relationship dynamics and gender roles in the protection of HIV discordant heterosexual couples: an exploratory study in the Puerto Rican context. Author: Orengo-Aguayo R; Perez-Jimenez D Source: Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal. 2009 Mar;28(1):30-9. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Most of the HIV/AIDS prevention efforts have not taken into consideration the context of the relationship and the gender constructs that influence relationship dynamics. These efforts have failed to view HIV prevention as a collaborative process between partners. Therefore, it is important to explore how relationship dynamics and gender constructs influence how men and women involved in an HIV discordant heterosexual relationship, visualize their role in the protection of their partners in order to design more effective prevention interventions. METHODS: Five Puerto Rican HIV discordant heterosexual couples were interviewed via a qualitative semi-structured interview. The taped interviews were transcribed and analyzed using content analysis according to a set of defined categories. RESULTS: Women visualized their role as one of convincing their partners to use protection as well as being strong and firm in the demand of its use. Men viewed their role as one of being more supportive and willing to use protection, but recognized their resistance towards the use of condoms. Relationship dynamics such as communication and support promoted protection. CONCLUSIONS: Traditional and non-traditional gender roles were assumed by both men and women. Traditional gender roles inhibited protection but were also used in positive ways to promote it. Men showed a greater initiative to break with traditional gender norms. A positive relationship, marked by communication and support could serve as a facilitator in the protection and in the transformation of traditional gender norms. This points out to the need of viewing HIV/AIDS prevention as a collaborative rather than individualistic process. Language: English Keywords: PUERTO RICO | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | COUPLES | SPOUSE | HETEROSEXUALS | GENDER RELATIONS | HIV INFECTIONS | SPOUSAL SUPPORT | SEX FACTORS | CONDOM USE | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | Caribbean | Americas | Developed Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Family Relationships | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Gender Issues | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Risk Reduction Behavior | Interpersonal Relations Document Number: 341066 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender and care: access to HIV testing, care, and treatment. Author: Remien RH; Chowdhury J; Mokhbat JE; Soliman C; Adawy ME; El-Sadr W Source: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2009 Jul 1;51 Suppl 3:S106-10. Abstract: HIV transmission and occurrence of AIDS in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) is increasing, while access to ART in the region lags behind most low to middle-income countries. Like in other parts of the world, there is a growing feminization of the epidemic, and men and women each confront unique barriers to adequate HIV prevention and treatment services, while sharing some common obstacles as well. This paper focuses on important gender dimensions of access to HIV testing, care and treatment in the MENA region, including issues related to stigma, religion and morality, gender power imbalances, work status, and migration. Culturally specific policy and programmatic recommendations for improving HIV prevention and treatment in the MENA region are offered. Language: English Keywords: MIDDLE EAST | AFRICA, NORTH | RESEARCH REPORT | GENDER RELATIONS | CARE AND SUPPORT | HIV TESTING | TREATMENT | HIV INFECTIONS | HEALTH POLICY | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Africa | Developing Countries | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Policy | Political Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 342682 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: Twenty-five years of HIV: lessons for low prevalence scenarios. Author: Sawires S; Birnbaum N; Abu-Raddad L; Szekeres G; Gayle J Source: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2009 Jul 1;51 Suppl 3:S75-82. Abstract: During the initial quarter century since the discovery of HIV, international response has focused on high prevalence scenarios and concentrated epidemics. Until recently, the theoretical underpinnings of HIV prevention were largely based on these responses-the assumption that inadequate responses to concentrated epidemics within low prevalence populations could rapidly lead to generalized epidemics. The limits of these assumptions for HIV prevention in low prevalence scenarios have become evident. While examples of rapid HIV diffusion in once low prevalence scenarios exist, emergence of generalized epidemics are less likely for much of the world. This paper reviews several key issues and advances in biomedical and behavioural HIV prevention to date and highlights relevance to low prevalence scenarios. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | HIV INFECTIONS | HIV | HEALTH POLICY | GENDER RELATIONS | HIV PREVENTION | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Measurement | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Gender Issues | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 342679 |
| 13. Title: Alcohol consumption, drug use, and condom use among STD clinic patients. Author: Scott-Sheldon LA; Carey MP; Vanable PA; Senn TE; Coury-Doniger P; Urban MA Source: Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. 2009 Sep;70(5):762-70. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Research on the association between substance use and sexual risk behavior has yielded a complex pattern of findings. Such inconsistent findings may reflect method variance, including factors such as gender of the participant, nature of the sexual event, partner characteristics, and type of substance used. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between substance use and unprotected sex independently for alcohol, drugs, or combined substance use and to examine partner characteristics as a moderator of this association. METHOD: Participants (N = 1,419; 48% women) were recruited from a publicly funded sexually transmitted disease clinic and were asked to complete an audio computer-assisted self-interview regarding their most recent sexual experience, including nature of the event, substance use, and partner characteristics. RESULTS: Analyses showed that alcohol use was related to condom use when gender and partner type were considered; thus, for women, but not for men, partner type interacted with alcohol consumption such that condom use was less likely when alcohol consumption preceded sex with nonprimary partners (drinking was unrelated to condom use with primary partners). Subsequent analyses examining partner substance use showed that women, but not men, who reported both they and their nonprimary partners were drinking during sex were less likely to use a condom. CONCLUSIONS: At the event level, alcohol consumption among sexually transmitted disease clinic patients is associated with condom use, but this association differs by gender and partner characteristics. Findings suggest the need to strengthen substance-use components in sexual risk reduction interventions for women and their partners. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | NEW YORK | RESEARCH REPORT | CLIENTS | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | DRUG USE AND ABUSE | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | CONDOM USE | GENDER RELATIONS | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Risk Reduction Behavior | Gender Issues Document Number: 342714 |
14.  Peer Reviewed Title: Factors associated with sexual initiation and condom use among adolescents on Santiago Island, Cape Verde, West Africa. Author: Tavares CM; Schor N; Franca I Jr; Diniz SG Source: Cadernos De Saude Publica. 2009 Sep;25(9):1969-80. Abstract: This study focused on factors associated with sexual initiation and condom use among teenagers on Santiago Island, Cape Verde, according to gender. This was a representative, probabilistic sample of 13- to-17-year-olds (n = 768) attending public secondary schools on Santiago Island in 2007. Associations were tested by test of proportion, Pearson's chi-square, or Fisher's exact test and logistic regression. Factors related to sexual initiation among boys were: age over 14 years, Catholic religion, and alcohol consumption. For girls, the factors included: more than nine years of schooling and involvement in an affective-sexual relationship. Unlike in other Sub-Saharan countries, there was a high prevalence of condom use during initial sexual activity. Language: English Keywords: CAPE VERDE | RESEARCH REPORT | SAMPLING STUDIES | ADOLESCENTS | STUDENTS | CONDOM USE | FIRST INTERCOURSE | CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS | KNOWLEDGE | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | GENDER RELATIONS | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Education | Risk Reduction Behavior | Behavior | Sex Behavior | Contraception | Family Planning | Gender Issues Document Number: 342778 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: The gender approach in community AIDS projects in Mozambique: agreement and disagreement between government and civil society. Author: Villela WV; Barber-Madden R Source: Cadernos De Saude Publica. 2009 Mar;25(3):694-9. Abstract: This article discusses some areas where government and civil society converge and clash in their gender approaches in community HIV/AIDS projects in Mozambique, based on an evaluative study conducted in 2006 encompassing 160 of the 1,124 NGO projects undertaken with the support of the country's national AIDS council, known as the Conselho Nacional de Combate ao SIDA (CNCS). An analysis of projects and official documents shows that, for the CNCS, the term 'gender' represents a way of underscoring the epidemic's impact on women. In community projects, the gender approach often times finds expression in initiatives to mitigate the economic impact of the epidemic on widows. Initiatives aimed at men and at the population as a whole generally pay little attention to power relations between men and women or their affect on the epidemic. This suggests that any endeavor to transfer Western analytical techniques or forms of intervention for coping with the HIV/AIDS epidemic to other regions of the world demands painstaking efforts to translate these and adapt them to local cultural standards. Language: English Keywords: MOZAMBIQUE | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | COMMUNITY | GENDER RELATIONS | AIDS | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | ECONOMIC FACTORS | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 342664 |
| 16. Title: Are schools safe havens for children?: examining school-related gender-based violence. Author: Management Systems International [MSI]. EQUATE Project Source: Washington, D.C., EQUATE Project, MSI, 2008. 49 p. (USAID Contract No. GEW-I-00-02-00021-00) Abstract: The physical, psychological, and sexual violence some children experience in and around school compromises their ability to fully realize the benefits of education. Although there are no global data on the prevalence of school-related gender-based violence, the literature reviewed for this report indicates that physical, sexual, and psychological abuse in and around schools is a worldwide problem. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | SCHOOL AGE POPULATION | TEACHERS | SCHOOLS | VIOLENCE | GENDER RELATIONS | SEXUAL ABUSE | PHYSICAL ABUSE | PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | USAID | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Education | Behavior | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Aggression | Diseases | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors Document Number: 329545 |
| 17. Title: Overview of HIV interventions for young people. Author: UNAIDS. Inter-Agency Task Team on HIV and Young People Source: New York, New York, United Nations Population Fund, HIV/AIDS Branch, [2008]. 8 p. (Guidance Brief) Abstract: A series of seven Guidance Briefs has been developed by the Inter- Agency Task Team (IATT) on HIV and Young People1 to assist United Nations Country Teams (UNCT) and UN Theme Groups on HIV/AIDS in providing guidance to their staffs, governments, donors and civil society on the specific actions that need to be in place to respond effectively to HIV among young people. This Brief provides a global overview and is complemented by a separate Brief for most-at-risk young people and five others on HIV interventions among young people provided through different settings /sectors: community, education, health, humanitarian emergencies and the workplace. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | YOUTH | POLICYMAKERS | HIV PREVENTION | HEALTH POLICY | RISK ASSESSMENT | RISK BEHAVIOR | SEX BEHAVIOR | RISK FACTORS | SEX FACTORS | GENDER RELATIONS | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | UNAIDS | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Biology | Gender Issues | Programs | UN | International Agencies | Organizations Document Number: 329551 |
| 18. Title: Project on a mechanism to address laws that discriminate against women. Author: Banda F Source: [Geneva, Switzerland], United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Women’s Rights and Gender Unit, 2008 Mar 6. [167] p. Abstract: The aim of the project was to examine the advisability of creating a new mechanism to address laws that discriminate against women. The terms of reference specified two key objectives. The first was to overview existing UN mechanisms to ascertain the extent to which they addressed the issue of discriminatory laws. This involved interviewing UN human rights and agency officials working in both Geneva and New York and also reviewing the reports and jurisprudence of human rights committees and special procedure mechanisms. The second was to try to get national data on laws that discriminate against women. This was to be done by means of a questionnaire. On the basis of the data gathered, the consultant was required to advise on whether a special mechanism addressing discriminatory laws was needed. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | WOMEN | SEX DISCRIMINATION | LEGISLATION | INEQUALITIES | TREATIES | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | CHILD MARRIAGE | GENDER RELATIONS | ARRANGED MARRIAGE | HARMFUL TRADITIONAL PRACTICES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | EMPLOYMENT | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Human Rights | Marriage | Nuptiality | Gender Issues | Traditional Health Practices | Culture | Macroeconomic Factors Document Number: 325464 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: Being and feeling like a woman: respectability, responsibility, desirability and safe sex among women of Afro-Surinamese and Dutch Antillean descent in the Netherlands. Author: Bertens MG; Krumeich A; van den Borne B; Schaalma HP Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Aug;10(6):547-61. Abstract: The objective of this study was to describe and understand gender roles and the relational context of sexual decision-making and safe sex negotiation among Afro-Surinamese and Dutch Antillean women in the Netherlands. Twenty-eight individual in-depth interviews and eight focus group discussions were conducted. In negotiating safe sex with a partner, women reported encountering ambiguity between being respectable and being responsible. Their independence, autonomy, authority and pride inherent to the matrifocal household give them ample opportunity to negotiate safe sex and power to stand firm in executing their decisions. The need to be respectable burdens negotiation practices, because as respectable, virtuous women there would not be the need to use condoms. Respectable women will only participate in serious monogamous relationships, which are inherently safe. Women's desire to feel like a woman, 'to tame the macho-man' and constrain him into a steady relationship, limits negotiation space because of emotional dependency. Respectability seems to enforce not questioning men's sexual infidelity. In developing STI/HIV prevention programmes this ambiguity due to cultural values related to gender roles should be considered. Raising awareness of power differences and conflicting roles and values may support women in safe-sex decision-making. Language: English Keywords: NETHERLANDS | NETHERLANDS ANTILLES | SURINAME | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOCUS GROUPS | WOMEN | IMMIGRANTS | WOMEN'S STATUS | DECISION MAKING | SAFER SEX | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | GENDER RELATIONS | CONDOM USE | EMOTIONS | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Caribbean | Americas | South America, Northern | South America | Latin America | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Demographic Factors | Population | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Behavior | Sex Behavior | Interpersonal Relations | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Risk Reduction Behavior | Psychological Factors Document Number: 329244 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender dynamics and sexual norms among youth in Mali in the context of HIV/AIDS prevention. Author: Boileau C; Vissandjee B; Nguyen VK; Rashed S; Sylla M; Zunzunegui MV Source: African Journal of Reproductive Health. 2008 Dec;12(3):173-84. Abstract: Socially constructed ideas of gender norms and values attached to sexuality need to be considered when aiming to build the young people's capacity to adopt HIV preventive behaviours. We conducted ten focus groups and sixteen individual interviews to explore sexual norms among youth in Bamako. Premarital sex, multiple partnering, condom use and transactional sex were discussed. The findings suggest that young people's sexual norms are shaped by kin or authoritative elders as well as by external influences coming from Western culture. Sexual norms are differentially constructed by men and women and are in contradiction with those of older generations. Views on premarital sex, condom use and transactional sex generated controversy among men and women, as well as among more sexually conservative or progressive youth. However, there was general rejection of multiple partnerships. Empowering youth to pursue open debates on sexuality may be an avenue for HIV/AIDS prevention in Mali. Language: English Keywords: MALI | RESEARCH REPORT | FOCUS GROUPS | YOUTH | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | SOCIAL BEHAVIOR | GENDER RELATIONS | INTERVIEWS | SEX BEHAVIOR | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Behavior | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341419 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Saving 'face' and 'othering': getting to the root of barriers to condom use among Chinese female sex workers. Author: Chapman J; Estcourt CS; Hua Z Source: Sexual Health. 2008 Aug;5(3):291-298. Abstract: China has one of the most rapidly expanding HIV epidemics in the world with sexual transmission between female sex workers (FSW) and clients accounting for a rising fraction of new infections. Successful HIV prevention relies on the delivery of relevant, culturally appropriate messages to influence behaviour change. However, the cultural systems that give rise to barriers to condom use among Chinese FSW have been poorly examined. A better understanding of these barriers is fundamental to global HIV prevention efforts particularly considering increasing international migration of Chinese women who go on to engage in sex work in their migrant country. We conducted semistructured interviews with 23 FSW incarcerated in a re-education and detention centre in Shenzhen, China in July to August 2004. All respondents were internal economic migrants who had entered the sex industry in pursuit of greater financial reward. Respondents explained that they would 'lose face' if they returned from their migration penniless. Women's distinction between commercial and non-commercial partners was very subtle; the nature of 'boyfriend' relationships was diverse and these were often transactional. Condom use was influenced by gender norms, familiarity, a desire to 'save' and 'give' face and, in transactional relationships, whether more money was offered. Women felt HIV was a disease of 'others'; only two women felt personally at risk. The present study has highlighted the importance of unique cultural structures in Chinese FSW sexual decision-making, an understanding of which will enhance the success of HIV-prevention efforts globally. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | SEX WORKERS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PRISONERS | MIGRANTS | INTERNAL MIGRATION | CONDOM USE | SELF ESTEEM | HIV PREVENTION | CULTURE | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | GENDER RELATIONS | MICROECONOMIC FACTORS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Risk Reduction Behavior | Psychological Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Gender Issues Document Number: 322962 |
| 22. Peer Reviewed Title: Sexual agency versus relational factors: a study of condom use antecedents among high-risk young African American women. Author: Croxby RA; DiClemente RJ; Wingood GM; Salazar LF; Head S; Rose E; McDermott-Sales J Source: Sexual Health. 2008 Feb;5(1):41-47. Abstract: The influence that female partners exert regarding condom use is not well known. In the present study, the relative roles of personal sexual agency and relational factors in determining whether young African American women engaged in unprotected vaginal sex (UVS) were studied. A cross sectional study of 713 young, African American women (aged 15-21 years) was conducted. Data were collected using an audio-computer assisted self-interview. Three measures of sexual agency were assessed and three relational factors were assessed. To help assure validity in the outcome measure, condom use was assessed in five different ways. Multivariate analyses were used to determine whether variables independently predicted UVS. Two of the six predictor variables achieved multivariate significance with all five measures of condom use: (1) fear of negotiating condom use with male partners, and (2) indicating that stopping to use condoms takes the fun out of sex. A relational factor (male-dominated power imbalances) achieved multivariate significance for four of the five measures of UVS. A sexual agency factor (whether young women greatly enjoyed sex) achieved multivariate significance for three of the five measures. The results suggest that young African American women at high-risk of sexually transmissible infections (STI)/HIV acquisition may experience male-dominated power imbalances and also fear the process of negotiating condom use with their male partners. Although these factors were independently associated with UVS, two factors pertaining to sexual agency of these young women were also important predictors of UVS. Intervention efforts designed to avert STI/HIV acquisition among young African American women should therefore include programs to address both sexual agency and relational factors. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | KAP SURVEYS | BLACKS | WOMEN | SEXUAL PARTNERS | CONDOM USE | GENDER RELATIONS | FEAR | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Ethnic Groups | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Risk Reduction Behavior | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Emotions | Psychological Factors | Interpersonal Relations Document Number: 322846 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Germany: Family diversity with low actual and desired fertility. Author: Dorbritz J Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(17):557-598. Abstract: Germany is a low-fertility country with a rapidly ageing population, and will remain so for the foreseeable future. There are several reasons for this trend. Germany is among the countries with the highest rates of childlessness in the world, and childlessness has become widely accepted. This is illustrated by changes in living arrangements. A broad range of living arrangements has been added to the basic model of marriage with children; namely, single living, non-marital cohabitation, lone parenthood, patchwork families and living apart together. A culture of individualism has spread in Germany which forms the basis for widespread decisions against family formation. The desired number of children has become low and family policy is considered to be a failure in terms of its influence on fertility. German family policy has had a traditional orientation centred on monetary support to families and on the promotion of the male breadwinner model. Women have been largely forced to choose between familyand work, and leave the labour market when a child is born. The still prevailing concept of family policy does not help to reduce the pressure to choose between work and family life, and thus makes it easier to decide not to have children, especially for highly educated women. A change in family policy is needed which will enable couples to choose between the breadwinner-housewife and the reconciliation model. Gradually, this change is starting to take place. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GERMANY | RESEARCH REPORT | LOW FERTILITY POPULATION | NULLIPARITY | FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD | FAMILY SIZE, DESIRED | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | GENDER RELATIONS | Europe, Central | Europe | Developed Countries | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parity | Fertility Measurements | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Gender Issues Document Number: 327725 |
| 24. Title: Sexuality in diasporic space: rural-to-urban migrant women negotiating gender and marriage in contemporary China. Author: Gaetano A Source: Gender, Place and Culture. 2008 Dec;15(6):629-645. Abstract: Feminist geographers use the term diasporic subjectivity to emphasize the relational quality of identity as it is constructed in the dynamic in-between space occupied by the migrant and traversed by norms and practices associated with the village community, migrant peers, and urban consumer society, as well as nation-states. Using ethnographic methods, I explore how young, single rural Chinese women who migrated to Beijing in the 1990s negotiate sexuality in diasporic space, within the discursive and institutional orders of state, market and family. Though migration does not fundamentally alter these structures that construct inequality around place-based identity, gender and class, it does enable rural women to shift position within them and, significantly, to imagine that further, future change is possible. Foregrounding migrant women's agency in remaking gender identity from so-called rustic peasants to modern girls as well as in choosing marital partners and conducting courtship provides an important counterweight to the primary emphasis on structure found in much of the migration literature. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | MIGRANTS | HETEROSEXUALS | WOMEN | RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION | GENDER RELATIONS | MARRIAGE | SEXUALITY | SEX DISCRIMINATION | SOCIAL CHANGE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Nuptiality | Personality | Psychological Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems Document Number: 341980 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Potential for abuse in the VCT counselling room: service provider's perceptions in Kenya. Author: Hamilton C; Okoko D; Tolhurst R; Kilonzo N; Theobald S; Taegtmeyer M Source: Health Policy and Planning. 2008 Nov;23(6):390-6. Abstract: The rapid scale-up of HIV counselling and testing programmes in Kenya has led to quality concerns, including the potential for abuse within the private, confidential setting of client-initiated voluntary counselling and testing (VCT). A qualitative study was conducted in three provinces of Kenya, involving 26 VCT service providers and 13 key informants. First and second hand accounts of emotional, physical and sexual abuse emerged in all three study sites in spite of measures to mitigate such occurrences. Whilst uncommon, abuse was perceived by service providers to be serious and sufficiently widespread to raise significant concerns. Abuse occurred client to counsellor, from counsellor to client and from counsellor to counsellor. In all cases the person suffering the abuse was female. While the potential for abuse was demonstrated in VCT sites, we argue that experiences of abuse are not confined to VCT and are largely shaped by gender and power relations within the Kenyan cultural context. The international impetus for scale-up of HIV services provides an urgent rationale for the need to address and highlight these difficult issues at multiple levels. International guidelines, policy and methods need adapting in recognition of the potential for abuse. Systems for investigating and deregistering counsellors have been developed in Kenya but require formalizing. Institutions providing VCT should consider unlocked doors, semi-opaque windows and the use of 'mystery clients' as a quality assurance measure. Language: English Keywords: KENYA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | COUNSELORS | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | SEXUAL ABUSE | PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE | PHYSICAL ABUSE | SEX DISCRIMINATION | CULTURE | GENDER RELATIONS | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Counseling | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | HIV Testing | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Aggression | Behavior | Violence | Social Discrimination | Gender Issues Document Number: 329233 |
| 26. Title: Struggling alone: Gender, migration and domestic violence among Thai women in Bangkok. Author: Han CK; Resurreccion BP Source: Asian Journal of Women's Studies. 2008;14(1):34, 39. Abstract: Female rural-urban migration has significantly contributed to the economic growth of Thailand in the last three decades, particularly in industry and tourism. What is less known, however, is how migrant women navigate their lives in the city and, in particular, their experience of violent relationships from which they attempt to free themselves. Such action runs contrary to earlier notions of women as passive victims of domestic violence. On the basis of interviews with rural migrant women in two Bangkok shelters, we argue that poor women experience major constraints in freeing themselves from violent relationships, which cannot be solely attributed to the cultural system of male domination in Thai society. Gender inequality alone cannot explain the response of women to domestic violence, since it intersects with other systems of power and stratification. This "inter-sectionality" shapes the nature of women's response to domestic violence, how it is experienced and whether escape and safety are indeed possible for them. (author's) Language: English Keywords: THAILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | WOMEN | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | GENDER RELATIONS | RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION | MIGRATION | FEMALE ROLE | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Demographic Factors | Population | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Gender Issues | Population Dynamics | Social Behavior | Behavior Document Number: 326926 |
| 27. Title: Ethiopian women's perspectives on reproductive health. Results from a PEER study in the Guraghe zone. Author: Hemmings J; Wubshet T; Lemma S; Antoni T; Cherinet T Source: London, United Kingdom, Options, 2008 May. 56 p. Abstract: This study was conducted to learn about the social context in which reproductive health decisions are made among women of childbearing age in rural and peri-urban areas of the Guraghe Zone, Ethiopia. Results will inform MSI-E's advocacy programme, communications design, and development of social marketing tools. Using the PEER approach, local women developed their own research questions, interviewed their friends, and fed back findings to the research team. They collected detailed qualitative data on gender dynamics, socioeconomic conditions, attitudes to family planning, and experience of health services and communications. The study was conducted in and around Wolkite, a town 150km south west of Addis Ababa on the main road to Jinna. The women recruited were broadly typical of the area's population: of reproductive age, a mixture of Christian and Muslim, engaged in farming and trading in local markets, and busy with young families and domestic work. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FORMATIVE RESEARCH | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | WOMEN | PEER GROUPS | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | FAMILY PLANNING | ATTITUDES | AWARENESS | BELIEFS | DECISION MAKING | GENDER RELATIONS | WOMEN'S STATUS | KNOWLEDGE SOURCES | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Communication | Health | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Culture | Gender Issues | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 328160 |
| 28. Peer Reviewed Title: Sexual coercion within marriage in Quang Tri, Vietnam. Author: Hien PT Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Jun;10 Suupl 1:S177-S187. Abstract: Sexual coercion in marriage is not widely talked about in Vietnam. Against this background, the present study aimed to describe how and why non-consensual sex in marital settings occurs in a rural community in Vietnam. Data were collected from 81 married men and women through ethnographic fieldwork, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Findings revealed that silence and lack of resistance on the part of women in sex are interpreted as consent, and cultural values often encourage women to accept coercion 'voluntarily'. Lack of information on, and public dialogue about, sexuality make it difficult for sexually inexperienced people to gain knowledge before commencing sexual relationships and often lead to traumatic first experiences. These factors combine to make women develop negative attitudes toward sex or to deny sex altogether. To better understand sexual coercion within marriage, we should look not only at physical acts but also at cultural and gendered perceptions and practices in a specific setting. Findings highlight the need for a comprehensive response to tackling sexual coercion within marriage. (author's) Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | CURRENTLY MARRIED | SEXUAL ABUSE | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | SOCIAL BEHAVIOR | SEX BEHAVIOR | PERCEPTION | GENDER RELATIONS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Research Methodology | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Domestic Violence | Behavior | Psychological Factors | Gender Issues Document Number: 326463 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender, caste and matchmaking in Kerala: A rationale for dowry. Author: Kodoth P Source: Development and Change. 2008 Mar;39(2):263-283. Abstract: The matrilineal castes of northern Kerala consider dowry demeaning and resort to it only in 'exceptional' circumstances. In local discourse, dowry is transacted when women are considered 'old' by the standards of the marriage market, where over-age is a condition reached usually on account of what is considered a deficit of a normative conception of femininity. Dowry is practised openly only by poor and socially vulnerable households, as the relatively affluent could mask dowry with hidden compensations. This article explores the ways in which gender mediates matchmaking and generates a residual category of women for whom dowry is openly negotiated. Open negotiation on the margins of the marriage market expose the terms of exchange in 'respectable' society, where matchmaking strategies reveal the emphasis placed on conjugality and on caste in the social construction of women's interests and identity. Up to the mid-twentieth century, matrilineal women derived their identity from their natal families. The political economy of marriage in Kerala brought a new emphasis to bear on conjugality and on caste, which generated new restrictions on women and produced a rationale for dowry. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | HISTORICAL REVIEW | RESEARCH REPORT | SOCIOMETRICS | WOMEN | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | DOWRY | CASTE | GENDER RELATIONS | ANTHROPOLOGY, CULTURAL | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | MATRIARCHY | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Measurement | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Economic Factors | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Science | Family Characteristics | Family and Household Document Number: 326352 |
| 30. Peer Reviewed Title: Husband-wife agreement, power relations and contraceptive use in Turkey. Author: Kulczycki A Source: International Family Planning Perspectives. 2008 Sep;34(3):127-137. Abstract: In Turkey, contraceptive use has become more widespread, but little is known about the concurrence of spousal reports or the relative influence of communication, decision making and power differentials on method use. METHODS: Data from the 1998 Turkish Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) for 1,546 married couples were tested for concurrence between spousal reports on fertility and family planning variables. Multivariate regression analyses based on wives', husbands' and joint reports of current contraceptive use were used to assess the association between such use and various background, communication and interspousal variables. RESULTS: Spousal reports on most fertility and contraceptive use measures demonstrated moderate to high concordance, whereas reports of approval of family planning showed only fair concordance. After adjusting for background factors, models based on wives' and husbands' reports showed that current contraceptive use was positively associated with the number of methods known (odds ratios, 1.2 and 1.1, respectively) and perception of spousal approval (3.3 and 2.0, respectively), and in the husbands' model, with approval of either spouse or both (3.8-5.8). In the combined model, contraceptive use was positively associated with both partners approving of family planning (2.4), and negatively associated with both partners wanting more than three children and with only wives wanting three or fewer (0.4 and 0.6, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Discrepancies between spousal reports were less significant in Turkey than in most developing countries with DHS data, but the differences were not inconsequential to explaining how spousal attitudes and preferences influence contraceptive use. No evidence was found associating interspousal power differentials with method use. Further research is needed to improve the testing and modeling of such dyadic processes. Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | COUPLES | CURRENTLY MARRIED | HUSBAND-WIFE COMMUNICATION | GENDER RELATIONS | DECISION MAKING | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | SEX FACTORS | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | PERCEPTION | FAMILY SIZE, DESIRED | Developing Countries | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Partner Communication | Interpersonal Relations | Behavior | Gender Issues | Fertility | Population Characteristics | Contraception | Family Planning | Psychological Factors | Family Size Document Number: 322523 |
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