Sexual Perceptions Research Articles

Is it just me, or was that sexist? The role of sexism type and perpetrator race in identifying sexism

ABSTRACTDespite sexism occurring frequently, people often do not identify it as such. Using a vignette design, the current project explored whether sexism was identified at a different rate and intensity depending on the specific form of sexism enacted (hostile or benevolently sexist behavior) and race (Black or White) of the man perpetrating sexist behaviors. When a Black man engaged in a benevolently (paternalistic) sexist behavior he was perceived as more sexist than a White man. However, White and Black men were perceived similarly when they engaged in a hostile (overtly negative and derogatory) sexist behavior. Overall, female participants identified sexism more often and viewed it as more sexist than male participants did, especially in the context of benevolent sexism. These findings suggest there are significant effects of perceiver gender and perpetrator race in the perception of sexism. This demonstrates the importance of examining both race- and gender-based discrimination together.

UNDERSTANDING THE SEXUALITY OF PERSONS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY IN RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES: PERCEPTIONS OF SERVICE PROVIDERS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

The sexual expression of persons with intellectual disability is a neglected area, more particularly in residential facilities. This article is based on research to explore the perceptions of sexuality of persons with disability in residential facilities in Gauteng, South Africa. Results pointed to stereotyping, infantilisation and the sexuality of persons with disability not being prioritised at institutions, as evidenced in oppressive practices and policies pertaining to lack of privacy, denial of intimate relationships, lack of sexuality policies and paucity of sexual health education programmes at the residential facilities.

A cross-sectional study of the factors associated with male circumcision status among college youth in Ndola, Zambia, 2016.

New cases of HIV are increasing among young adults in Zambia; yet voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) coverage as an HIV prevention measure remains low. Despite having the highest HIV burden in the province, Ndola district had a VMMC coverage of 23% in 2015 compared to the national target of 80% among high-risk groups. To determine predictive factors associated with circumcision status among male students in Ndola district. We conducted a cross-sectional study in May 2016 among students aged 18-35 years enrolled in five conveniently sampled colleges. We administered a structured questionnaire to assess the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions about VMMC. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with male circumcision (MC) status. Of 136 students interviewed, 63% were circumcised, and of those, 96% were medically circumcised. Half of all students were aged 21-24 years. Those who perceived the circumcision procedure to be 'safe' (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 5.13; 95% CI: 2.09-14.82), and knew that it reduced female to male HIV transmission risk (aOR = 3.65; 95% CI: 3.12-11.67), were more likely to be circumcised. The perception that MC promotes 'promiscuous behaviour' (aOR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.07-0.61), and that sexual sensitivity is the 'same' regardless of circumcision status, were associated with not being circumcised (aOR = 0.13; 95% CI: 0.02-0.80). Students had adequate knowledge about the safety of medical circumcision, and the subsequent risk reduction of HIV infection. Interventions aimed at addressing negative sexual perceptions about circumcision may increase VMMC coverage among college students.

Sexual behaviours, awareness and perceptions towards voluntary medical male circumcision among students in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, South Africa

Sexual behaviours, awareness and perceptions towards voluntary medical male circumcision among students in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, South Africa

Predictors of negative beliefs toward the sexual rights and perceived sexual healthcare needs of people with physical disabilities in South Africa

Background: Although sexuality is a ubiquitous human need, recent empirical research has shown that people without disabilities attribute fewer sexual rights and perceive sexual healthcare to benefit fewer people with disabilities, compared to non-disabled people. Within a global context, such misperceptions have tangible, deleterious consequences for people with disabilities (e.g., exclusion from sexual healthcare), creating an urgent need for effective strategies to change misperceptions.Methods: To lay the groundwork for developing such strategies, we examined predictors of the recognition of sexual rights of people with physical disabilities within the South African context, derived from three key social psychological literatures (prejudice, social dominance orientation and intergroup contact), as well as the relationship between sexual rights and beliefs about sexual healthcare. Data were obtained through a cross-sectional survey, given to non-disabled South Africans (N = 1989).Results: Findings indicated that lack of recognition of the sexual rights for physically disabled people predicted less positive beliefs about the benefits of sexual healthcare. In turn, high levels of prejudice (both cognitive and affective) toward disabled sexuality predicted less recognition of their sexual rights, while prejudice (both forms) was predicted by prior contact with disabled people and possessing a social dominance orientation (cognitive prejudice only). Evidence was also obtained for an indirect relationship of contact and social dominance orientation on sexual healthcare beliefs through prejudice, although these effects were extremely small.Conclusion: Results are discussed in terms of their implications for rehabilitation, as well as national-level strategies to tackle negative perceptions of disabled sexuality, particularly in contexts affected by HIV.Implications for rehabilitationFindings demonstrate an empirical link between prejudice toward disabled sexuality, lack of recognition of sexual rights and viewing sexual healthcare of less benefit for disabled people.Consequently, there is need for increased attention to these dimensions within the rehabilitative context.Contact with disabled people, including dedicated interventions, is unlikely to meaningfully impact beliefs about the benefits of sexual healthcare.

The Ethical Basis of Sex Crime in Taekwondo

This study aimed to provide a foundation for moving beyond the superficial perception of sexuality through a framework of consequentialism that earlier studies on deviant behaviors in the taekwondo community that sought to prevent such behaviors have adopted, by considering people’s unconscious self-determination of their acts of sexual violence as the basic foundation of the acts with the aim of fundamentally preventing sexually deviant behaviors based on constitutionalism, which is the law of reality. Based on this purpose, the following results were obtained. First, the mechanism of ‘people’s unconscious self-determination of their acts of sexual damage to others’ is based on ‘a choice to sacrifice others to their living desire for self-preservation and creation.’ Second, their desire for self-preservation and creation are causally related to the deviant behaviors of those in power through active self-variation, as they are ‘subordinate to the victory-oriented national system that guarantees winner-takes-all in the field of taekwondo’ as constitutionalism that we believe in and trust. Third, the causes of the unconscious self-determination and sexually deviant behaviors observed in the field of taekwondo were discussed within the framework of constitutionalism. Those in the field of taekwondo perceive others as someone to be conquered, and have hidden desires to unilaterally satisfy their sexual needs. In addition, the dark side of the safe constitutional system that we believe in and trust involves contradictions and risks that sacrifice others to the instinct of capital.

“The night comes early for a woman”: Menopause and sexual activities among urban older Yoruba men and women in Ibadan, Nigeria

ABSTRACT This article explores older peoples’ perceptions of menopause and sexuality in old age. The research was exploratory, consisting of 12 vignette-based focus group discussions and 18 face-to-face semistructured interviews among older Yoruba men and women (60+). Findings revealed menopause as a biopsychosocial marker of aging that provides gendered spaces for women to abstain from or suppress their sexual desires and avoid a folk pregnancy- oyun iju(folk fibroid). Older men construe menopause and sexual refusals from their wives as opportunities for extramarital relations. Thus, both older men and women have differentiated perceptions and dispositions toward menopause, which have implications for their sexual health and well-being.

Exploring the Use of Smartphone Geofencing to Study Characteristics of Alcohol Drinking Locations in High-Risk Gay and Bisexual Men.

Geofencing offers new opportunities to study how specific environments affect alcohol use and related behavior. In this study, we examined the feasibility of using geofencing to examine social/environmental factors related to alcohol use and sexual perceptions in a sample of gay and bisexual men (GBM) who engage in heavy drinking and high-risk sex. HIV-negative GBM (N=76) completed ecological momentary assessments for 30days via a smartphone application and were prompted to complete surveys when inside general geofences set around popular bars and clubs. A subset (N=45) were also asked to complete surveys when inside personal geofences, which participants set themselves by identifying locations where they typically drank heavily. Approximately 49% of participants received a survey prompted by a general geofence. Among those who identified at least 1 personal drinking location, 62.2% received a personal geofence-prompted survey. Of the 175 total location-based surveys, 40.2% occurred when participants were not at the location that was intended to be captured. Participants reported being most able to openly express themselves at gay bars/clubs and private residences, but these locations were also more "sexualized" than general bars/clubs. Participants did not drink more heavily at gay bars/clubs, but did when in locations with more intoxicated patrons or guests. Geofencing has the potential to improve the validity of studies exploring environmental influences on drinking. However, the high number of "false-positive" prompts we observed suggests that geofences should be used carefully until improvements in precision are more widely available.

Sexuality as taboo: using interpretative phenomenological analysis and a Foucauldian lens to explore fathers' practices in talking to their children about puberty, relationships and reproduction.

Fathers can play an important role in their children's learning about relationships and sexuality but we know very little about the father's lived experience in this regard. To explore eight fathers' perceptions and experiences of discussing puberty, relationships and reproduction with their 10-year-old children. The paper commences with a genealogical analysis of the history of sex education in England from the Public Health Act of 1848 to the present day. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used as both a methodology and a method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with each father and results were analysed ideographically, followed by analysis across the group. Interpretations were developed using a Foucauldian lens of governmentality and biopower. The paper explores how synthesis of IPA with a Foucauldian lens revealed significant tensions between the fathers' cognitions, accounts and behaviours, which were underpinned by an enduring perception of sexuality as taboo. By providing a contextualised understanding of the fathers' practices, this study demonstrates that a more informed approach to health promotion strategy can be achieved and the implications for nursing are explored.

Between ‘forced marriage’ and ‘free choice’: social transformations and perceptions of gender and sexuality among the Balanta in Guinea-Bissau

AbstractAfrican women are frequently portrayed as a subaltern group in need of external support, used as property in forging social relations, producing wealth in people and doing most of the agricultural work to feed household members in societies where ‘modernization’ does not always seem to change their unfortunate predicament. This article destabilizes such narratives by showing the complexities of marriage practices and the difficult dialectics between freedom and subjugation in one West African agrarian society – the Brasa-speaking people of Guinea-Bissau. Among this patrilineal and virilocal group, marriage was usually arranged at birth or when girls were still small children. However, after marriage, women enjoyed great freedom of movement to have distant sexual partners and to pursue private profit-making activities. Paradoxically, while at present most young women are allowed to marry a young husband of their choice, having lost the support of their descent groups they are becoming more subjected to their husbands’ power and control.

노인의 성생활 인식이 부부 간의 친밀감과 주관적 행복감에 미치는 영향

노인의 성생활 인식이 부부 간의 친밀감과 주관적 행복감에 미치는 영향

How Diabetic Men Perceive Sex and Sexual Dysfunction

Sex is an adult human need, including for diabetic men. Irregular changes in the blood sugar level causes complex sexual disorders with a high incidence rate, but this has never been explored in-depth regarding the fundamental view of sex and their disorders. This study explored the subject of focus by conducting a qualitative research study using a phenomenology approach that aimed to explore diabetic men and how they perceived sex and sexual dysfunction at a General Hospital in Jakarta. In-depth interviews were conducted with 7 participants. The findings provide detailed information on two main themes; sexual perceptions and how the men perceive the associated dysfunction. It was concluded that sex is a primer and a secondary need. Dysfunction becomes a disturbance of the primer need and this affects the patient psychologically.

Un día en la vida cotidiana de las y los jóvenes en Belalcázar, Guapi y Silvia Cauca

Este artículo se basa en la investigación exploratoria del trabajo de campo sobre las relaciones de poder en la construcción y percepción de la sexualidad masculina y femenina entre los y las jóvenes en tres comunidades: Belalcázar, Guapi y Silvia Cauca. Examino estas relaciones en el contexto de las diferencias de género y sus diversas relaciones sociales en la familia, con los amigos, sus amores y las enfermedades de transmisión sexual, al igual que los métodos de planificación familiar en los tres contextos.

Unwed motherhood, adoption reunion and stigmatized social identities

Data gathered from semi-structured interviews with 33 reunited birth mothers show they had been stigmatized for their unwed motherhood and hid this identity to protect self from social censure. The public exposure created by reunion contact with their adult placed children required new ways to manage this stigma trait. The women engaged in a process of identity talk supported by their understanding of altered perceptions of female sexuality and a “no choice” discourse that drew upon historical changes in the social position of unwed mothers. This identity talk increased their self-efficacy by providing stronger control over their presentation of self.

A Qualitative Comparison of Caregiver and Youth with Autism Perceptions of Sexuality and Relationship Experiences

Caregivers play a critical role in educating their youth with autism about sex and relationships; yet, we know little about caregivers' ability to deliver this support, youth's perspectives, or the congruence of youth and caregiver experiences. To help fill this gap, we explored and compared the perspectives of caregivers and their youth with autism spectrum disorder about and interactions regarding sex and relationships. We conducted qualitative one-on-one interviews with youth (n = 27) and focus groups with their caregivers (n = 29). A semi-structured guide elicited information from both the groups about the youth's physical, emotional, and social transition to adulthood. Thematic analysis, including coding and analytical memos, identified key themes within and across youth and caregiver discussions about sex and relationships. Thematic analysis of interviews revealed overarching themes about companionship, interest and experience, and access to sexual information across both the groups. Themes included different nuances among caregivers and youth, however. Caregivers expressed more future-oriented concerns than youth and overestimated their knowledge of their youth's interest and experience with sex and comfort confiding in caregivers. Youth described relationships and information sources of which their caregivers were unaware. Interventions for both caregivers and youth can support healthy and safe intimate relationships among youth with autism spectrum disorder. By comparing youth and caregiver dialogues, this study adds to what we know, and it can be used to develop a blueprint for improving communication patterns that not only include but also extend well beyond sexual health.

Vivências e perceções de sexualidade de portuguesas com mais de 65 anos

Resumo: Este estudo objetiva compreender as vivências e perceções sexuais de mulheres portuguesas com mais de 65 anos. Foram realizadas entrevistas individuais semiestruturadas a 13 mulheres (sete casadas e seis viúvas), com idades compreendidas entre os 66 e os 85 anos, e a informação obtida foi analisada através do método da análise temática. Desta análise foram construídos 5 (cinco) temas - Perceções sobre papéis de género, Sexo “obrigação”, Sexualidade e envelhecimento, Medos do casamento e da sexualidade e Educação sexual. Para as participantes deste estudo, encarar as alterações provocadas pelo envelhecimento como fim da obrigação sexual ou como uma oportunidade de readaptação sexual está inteiramente relacionado com a relação conjugal em si e com as ideologias que os membros do casal têm.

Effectively Addressing Human Immunodeficiency Virus Disparities Affecting US Black Women.

Black women have disproportionately higher rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and low percentages being linked to care and becoming virally suppressed, compared with women of other races/ethnicities. To date, few evidence-based HIV prevention and care interventions tailored for black women exist. We highlight three essential factors to consider in designing culturally and gender-appropriate studies to address HIV-related disparities affecting black women: (1) social determinants of HIV risk, (2) determinants of equity, and (3) perceptions of black women's sexuality. Synergy between a strong evidence base and developing strong partnerships could accelerate progress toward HIV-related health equity for black women.

Sexual Behaviors and Perceptions of HIV Risk in a Multiethnic U.S. Sample of Women Who Have Sex with Women

This study investigated the sexual practices and perceptions of HIV risk in a national sample women who have sex with women (WSW). A multiethnic sample of 239 WSW aged 18–68 years attending GLBTQ pride events in three U.S. cities (Chicago, Atlanta, and Fort Lauderdale) completed an anonymous survey regarding their sexual behaviors, thoughts and perceptions of HIV risk. In the past 6 months, 18% of participants reported one or more male partners. Perception of HIV risk was associated with having more male partners (r = .244, p < .01), no primary relationship (r = .185, p < .01), shorter time with primary partners (r = .191, p < .05), multiple female partners (r = .169, p < .05), and a primary relationship with a man (r = .208, p < .01). Participants reported low levels of safer sex, but those who had sex with men reported using more protection with men compared with women. Most participants believed WSW could be at risk for HIV, but felt little personal risk. Understanding behaviors and perceptions of risk while taking into account the unique contexts of the lives of WSW from diverse communities may help guide the development of relevant, targeted public health interventions that address HIV-risk in this group. For the purpose of this paper, we define lesbians as homosexual women, or women who have sexual desire and relationships with other women. WSW are women who have, or have had, sex with women who may or may not self-identify as lesbian.

The effect of schizotypy on the relationship between women's red clothing and perceived sexual interest

ObjectiveRed may increase perceptions of sexual intent and the sexual attractiveness of women. As such, red is purported to serve a function in sexual attraction, although findings have been mixed. Individual differences in observers can affect the perception of sexual intent. One of these individual differences (i.e., sub‐clinical schizotypy) has not been investigated in relation to the perceived sexual intent of women wearing red, hence this was addressed.MethodThis study involved 72 men and 144 women, recruited to complete an online survey. Participants completed a schizotypy symptom scale, and rated women wearing red and green dresses on sexual desire, sexual receptivity, and sexual attractiveness.ResultsIn line with the hypothesis, increases in schizotypy scores were associated with increased perception of sexual interest (summed ratings of sexual desire and sexual receptivity) for the model wearing the red dress more so than the green dress. However, no main effect of colour was observed.ConclusionsIndividuals high in schizotypy showed an exaggerated perception of sexual interest for women wearing red, implying that intentionality biases in schizotypy could be extended to the perception of sexual intent. The effect of colour on sexual intent perception may be dependent on measurement of individual variation.

Sexuality and Intimacy Following Stroke: Perspectives of Partners

Intimacy and sexuality can make vital contributions to quality of life but may become complicated or problematic for stroke survivors and their partners/spouses. Several studies have focused on survivor feelings and perceptions of post-stroke sexuality, but partners are generally neglected. The purpose of this project is to identify partner perspectives and experiences related to intimacy and sexuality following a stroke. Nine participants were interviewed in person or by phone about relationship changes and their information, supports or resources regarding intimacy and sexuality. Transcripts were analyzed using techniques of thematic analysis. Four themes were identified: (1) maintaining closeness and togetherness, (2) redefining sexuality and intimacy after stroke, (3) coping with lack of resources, and (4) wishing health professionals would discuss these topics. Results of this study indicated that partners are very concerned about intimacy and sexuality but feel unprepared to address these personal concerns post-stroke. Clinicians can open the lines of communication about sexuality and intimacy to support couples’ quality of life. Further resources and training as well as policies need to be developed to address sexuality and intimacy effectively with stroke survivors and their partners.