Father-son sexual communication: A qualitative study in Western Cape communities

[摘要] ENGLISH SUMMARY: The current study sought to investigate sexual communication within Coloured father-son dyads living in the Western Cape areas. Connell's theory of masculinity informed the study and the aim was therefore to identify if and how dominant notions of masculinity underpin or feature in father-son sexual communication. A qualitative research design was used to gain an in-depth understanding of this phenomenon. Fifteen dyads participated in the study. After fathers and sons were interviewed separately, the data were transcribed verbatim and analysed by using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis method. The findings indicate that, although both fathers and sons believed that fathers have an important role to play in the sex education of sons, the sexual communication in these dyads were often indirect, once-off and consisted of father-centred warnings or speeches. Furthermore, these communications were laced with hegemonic ideals of masculinity, sexuality and gender norms. It is concluded that more needs to be done to change these hegemonic ideas and to consider innovative ways in which men could be educated to support their sons' sex education.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University