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The importance of a positive approach to sexuality in sexual health programmes for unmarried adolescents in Bangladesh
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 08:01 authored by Miranda van van Reeuwijk, Papreen NaharPapreen NaharThis article explores the mismatch that exists between what unmarried adolescents in Bangladesh experience, want and need in regard to their sexuality and what they receive from their society, which negatively impacts on their understanding of sexuality and their well-being. The findings provide a picture of Bangladeshi adolescents' (12-18 years) sexual feelings, experiences, behaviours, anxieties and concerns - in particular in relation to desire, pleasure, sexual power, masturbation, virginity, romantic love and dating, and arranged marriage - and how socio-sexual norms and taboos influence these. Curiosity of boys and girls about sex was driven by a need and desire to know and understand, but also because it was exciting to read about and talk about sex. Young people are not just passive recipients of adult norms and messages around sexuality, but agents who actively construe meanings and navigate between what is expected from them and what they want, need and feel themselves. Adolescents have a need for information and support - long before they ever have sex. We call for a positive, rights-based approach to sexuality education for adolescents and a focus beyond health outcomes alone to support adolescents and young people to make sense of the multiplicity of messages they encounter and reduce unnecessary feelings of guilt and anxiety. © 2013 Reproductive Health Matters.
History
Publication status
- Published
Journal
Reproductive Health MattersISSN
0968-8080Publisher
Informa UK LimitedExternal DOI
Volume
21Page range
69-77Event location
EnglandDepartment affiliated with
- Global Health and Infection Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2023-02-01First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2023-01-31Usage metrics
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