Sexual Negotiations in Relation to Political Mobilization: The Prevention of HIV in a Comparative Context

Author: Susser I.

Source: AIDS and Behavior, Volume 5, Number 2, June 2001 , pp. 163-172(10)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Based on ethnographic research in different sites of the global economy, in New York City, Puerto Rico, and South Africa, this paper examines the ways in which women, confronted with the spread of HIV/AIDS, describe their sexual negotiations with men. In each situation, women are found to adopt different strategies for prevention in relation to their level and forms of political mobilization. The research documents the dual role of the U.S. media both in providing information for populations around the world and in perpetuating misconceptions and cultural stereotypes about the spread of HIV/AIDS and women's sexuality. Overall, the comparative data overturns stereotypes of cultural invariability with respect to women's sexuality and demonstrates women's willingness to modify their sexual behavior to reduce the threat of infection from HIV.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS; women; politics; media; condoms

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: Anthropology Department, Hunter College, and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York

Publication date: 2001-06-01