Gender and class differences in young people's sexuality and HIV/AIDS risk‐taking behaviours in Thailand

Abstract

This study examines gender and class differences in young people's beliefs about sexuality and HIV/AIDS risk‐taking behaviours in Thailand. Sixty young people aged 15–19, divided equally by gender and socioeconomic background, participated in focus groups and in‐depth interviews. Four topics were explored: the differences between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ girls/boys; young people's perceptions of sexuality; social class variations in young people's knowledge of HIV/AIDS and perceptions of risk; and the most influential institutions shaping young people's sexual attitudes. Results showed that young people screened potential sexual partners utilizing an image of ‘good girls/boys' as potential HIV/AIDS‐free partners; young people defined sexuality in terms of love/sexual relationships, premarital sex, promiscuity, and virginity; and HIV/AIDS awareness varied according to class. Young people of all classes failed to demonstrate an in‐depth understanding of how they can contract AIDS. They neither viewed themselves as being in an at‐risk group, nor considered their sexual behaviours to be at‐risk behaviours. Finally, family, friends, and mass media were reported to be among the most influential institutions shaping young people's sexual attitudes. In the struggle against HIV/AIDS, these institutions together with health education not only protect but also can empower young people in Thailand.