Exploring Perceptions on Sexual Empowerment Among Heterosexual Black Women in Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Abstract

This study explored the perceptions of sexual empowerment among heterosexual black women, aged 22–30 years, residing in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. It was a qualitative study utilising a case study research design. A purposive sampling method was used and participants were recruited using snowball sampling. Data was collected from eight heterosexual black females using one-on-one in-depth interviews, following a semi-structured interview schedule, and responses were analysed through thematic data analysis. The research findings indicate that women perceived sexual empowerment as their ability to fulfil their sexual rights. To this end, they perceived sexual empowerment as the ability to communicate on sexual matters, the power to grant or withhold consent, enjoying feelings of self-efficacy, and the freedom to experiment sexually through various sexual activities and self-pleasure. According to the participants, the factors influencing female sexual empowerment included gender norms around sexuality, social media, peer influence, and sexuality education. This study contributes to our understanding of sexual empowerment from women's perspectives and can be used to draft plans for educational seminars on sexual empowerment and policies on sexual and reproductive health rights.