Key Elements of Sociocultural Context. Gender norms are constructed within a sociocultural context and influenced by external political and economic factors. Throughout sub-Saharan Africa, there are a number of commonalities that characterize gender identities. In many sub-Saharan African societies, masculinity was traditionally defined by financial responsibilities and decision-making power within relationships. In order to assert their superiority and masculinity, young men aspired to pursue economic power (Xxxxxx, 2005; Xxxxx, Xxxxxxx, & Xxxxx, 2011; Xxxxxxxxxx et al. 2009). However, as a result of high unemployment among youth, poverty, familial instability, and inadequate schooling opportunities, dominant masculinity evolved into an identity characterized by risk taking and violence (Xxxxxx, 2007; Xxxxxxxxxx, et al., 2009; Xxxxxx, 2005; Xxxxx & Xxxxxxxx, 2006). In South Africa, the continued lack of employment has redefined masculinity. Less emphasis has been placed on being able to financially provide for one’s family. Traditionally men paid a bride price to the families of their fiancé in gratitude. However, as a result of the historical racial segregation and the lack of employment opportunities, marriage has become too expensive for most young men. In 2001, less than 30% of men and women over the age of 15 years old were married among African populations in South Africa (Hunter, 2005). Studies show that masculinity is defined by risky behaviors and is widely accepted as the gender norm. In many of the impoverished and slum areas where black South Africans live, death is an everyday part of life. As a result, young men have become desensitized to the meaning and implications of death. They have little motivation to protect their health since death is viewed as an everyday occurrence. This further perpetuates risky behaviors (Xxxxx & Xxxxxxxx, 2006). Similarly, a study in the United States also noted how the lack of economic opportunities resulted in violent hegemonic masculinity among young men (Xxxxxxxx, 2000). Another characteristic of masculinity is toughness. In order to demonstrate this ideal, it is widely accepted that men assert their dominance over women physically, sexually, and in decision-making processes (Xxxxxxxx, et al., 2009; Xxxxxxx, Xxxxxx, Xxxxxxxx, Xxxxxxx, & Xxxxxxxxx, 0000; Xxxxxx, 2007). Social status among adult men in Uganda and South Africa within peer groups was achieved through portraying sexual prowess (Govender, 2011; Xxxxxx, 2007). In South Africa, adolesce...
