Love Affairs, Dating and Sexual Behaviour among Unmarried Youth: A Qualitative Investigation Carried Out Immediately Prior to The Covid-19 Pandemic in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Initiation and continuation of healthy relationships among youth critical for the long-term wellbeing of the youth. Present socio-cultural environment presents numerous pitfalls which inhibit such relationships. Aim of this qualitative investigation was to describe the current status, trends and patterns of love affairs, dating and sexual behaviour among unmarried youth in Sri Lanka. Case studies, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were selected as methods of data collection. Thematic analysis was used. Four themes were generated, namely initiation of love affairs; dating and sexual behaviour, preferences, pattern and places; phycological, physical and sexual issues and violence related to love affairs and dating behaviour; assistance and advice on issues, problems in love affairs, dating and sexual behaviour. One of the key issues identified was lack of reliable person to seek advice for issues related to love affairs, dating and sexual behaviour among youth. Unmarried youth should be desensitized of the norms that inhibit the communication of love affairs, dating, sexuality and reproduction. Furthermore, a mechanism to identify high risk youth groups: those who have multiple love affairs, youth with inadequate knowledge of STIs, youth with casual sex, victims of sexual harassment need be designed and implemented