The ‘normalisation’ of sex selection within families of Xhugxwala in King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Abstract

abstract This article focuses on the processes followed to ‘normalise’ the practice of sex selection within families of Xhugxwala Administrative Area in King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study is guided by the theory of social construction. Using the ethnographic research method data were collected from 15 participants, who included unmarried and married young and middle-aged women with children, elderly women and midwives. Findings revealed various socially constructed practices used and understood by community members to predict the sex of unborn children and to assist women to give birth to an infant of the sex of their choice, using ‘normalised’ sex selection methods. As a result of these social constructs, pregnancy and birthing within this community are viewed as an area where nature may be manipulated in order to fulfil the desires of the family regarding the sex of an unborn child. Such cultural practices ‘normalise’ heterosexual sex selection and have an impact on the affected individuals, supressing diversity of sexual orientation in society.