In the absence of marriage: long-term concurrent partnerships, pregnancy, and HIV risk dynamics among South African young adults.

ABSTRACT: In KwaZulu/Natal, South Africa, where HIV prevalence is among the world's highest, a longitudinal qualitative study of partnership dynamics and HIV preventive behaviors was conducted. 47 young adults aged 18-24 participated in in-depth interviews, and 29 were re-interviewed 2 years later. Five analytical domains emerged: primary partnerships, love and romance; secondary partnerships; pregnancy/parenthood; condom use/prevention; and contextual influences, including schooling and future aspirations. Primary relationships were long-lasting, with most men and women in the same relationship at 2-year follow-up. Secondary, casual partnerships were common for men and women, although these were shorter and changed frequently. Love and marriage aspirations were not viewed as incompatible with secon

SUBMITTER: Harrison A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3848496 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature