Extent of Masculinity among youth and its influence on Risky Sexual behaviour: A study of Urban Slum communities in Mumbai, India

Masculinity is a set of qualities, characteristics or roles generally considered typical of, or appropriate to, a boy or man whereas Hypermasculinity is a psychological term for the exaggeration of male stereotypical behavior... [ view full abstract ]

Masculinity is a set of qualities, characteristics or roles generally considered typical of, or appropriate to, a boy or man whereas Hypermasculinity is a psychological term for the exaggeration of male stereotypical behavior such as an emphasis on physical strength, aggression and sexuality. Author analysed ASHRA (Alcohol Use, Sexual Health Risks and HIV Prevention among Young Men in Low Income Communities in Mumbai, India) data to find out the correlates of extent of masculinity and its influence on risky sexual behavior and sexual satisfaction among youth in urban slums of Mumbai. These chosen communities have low income families, accommodate migrants and are in close proximity to a substantial industrial sector. Author has used bi-variate and multivariate techniques for data analysis. The study found that one-fourth youth is having hypermasculinity which indicates that hypermasculinity is very much pervasive in the community. A little over one-third is having low masculinity whereas two-fifths is having moderate masculinity. Migratory status and standard of Living (SLI) and do not have a significant association with Hypermasculinity whereas, education, marital status (both models) religion (both models), occupation (both models), exposure to pornographic materials, exposure to sexual stimuli and leisure time activities are having a strong association with hypermasculinity of the youth in Mumbai. High positive condom attitude is less and low condom attitude is more among the hypermasculine group than those having low masculinity. Exposure to mass media is negatively and leisure time activities, relational satisfaction with girlfriend/wife as well as sexual satisfaction are positively associated with hypermasculinity among the youth. Promoting equalized gender norms among the youth in the slums and discouraging control over their partner’s sexuality is imperative. Awareness about gender equality and equity in sexual relationships minimizing sexual dominance in relationships should be promoted.
Keywords: Urban Slum; Youth; Hypermasculinity; Sexual Behavior; Risk behaviour