Sexuality, Sexual Behaviour and Reproductive Health : Social Science Perspectives

This book on Sexuality, Sexual Behaviour and Reproductive Health documents the research studies undertaken by Ford Foundation small grant awardees under the capacity development programme for social science research on these areas, in the context of risk of pandemic of HIV-AIDS. The book presents eighteen field based studies classified in three sections: Sexuality and Sexual Behaviour; Gender and Sexuality, and Reproductive Health. Besides, emphasis is given on studies about adolescent sex behaviour in tribal, rural and urban centres; visitors and migrants to urban centres, risky sexual behaviour; life of traditional female sex workers, and those residing in the brothels. Range of awareness and practices to prevent sexually transmitted morbidity has been documented. Reproductive practices of urban high caste reference groups have been studied. In contrast, the concepts and practices of tribal youth, who are believed to be following the natural instincts with better gender equality have been presented. Probably, the reproductive health issues of brothel based sex workers have been studied first time. The book presents field based data from Maharashtra, Gujrat and Rajasthan. The book could be used for undertaking similar studies elsewhere. The studies on plurality and diversity of sexually related issues would provide insights for policy planning and implementation, to prevent sexual morbidities.