Cross-Generational Sex: Risks and Opportunities

This six-page brief, published by the Population Reference Bureau, is based on a larger review entitled, "Addressing Cross-Generational Sex: A Desk Review of Research and Programs," as well as discussions with experts about the findings of this review. The brief is designed to broaden the understanding of cross-generational sex, look at how many young girls it affects, describe frameworks that guide current thinking about the behaviour, and propose lessons for improving future interventions. The brief proposes that, looking beyond surface portrayals of cross-generational sex to understanding the motivations behind this behaviour and the increased risks it engenders, there are important lessons learned for addressing programmes for women, who are shouldering the burdens of HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancies.

The brief begins with a definition of cross-generational sex, explaining that such a relationship is one in which girls receive money or goods in exchange for sex. It goes on to talk about how widespread the practice really is, comparing the results of various studies conducted in several sub-Saharan African countries. In 6 sub-Saharan African countries, the percent who have recently had sex with men at least 10 years older ranges from less than one percent in Malawi to more than 21 percent in Nigeria. The brief outlines various frameworks for understanding cross-generational sex. The most recent frames girls' rationale for entering into these kinds of relationships on a continuum, with voluntary engagement for "emotional reasons" on one end, coerced sex on the other, and sex for economic reasons in the middle. The authors note that whatever the rationale, the power imbalance and consequent inability to make decisions in these kinds of relationship make them risky for young girls.

The report looks at the approaches used in existing programmes that deal with cross-generational sex. These include youth mobilisation and empowerment and creating livelihood opportunities for youth; social marketing campaigns; awareness raising and health education campaigns; and addressing power imbalances and social and gender norms. The authors mention two methodologies they feel are particularly promising, "Stepping Stones" and "Community Conversations". According to the brief, the "Stepping Stones" methodology encourages community participation in facilitated discussions, and often uses drama and role-plays to help people talk about sensitive subjects. It also engages men and women to work together. "Community Conversations" fosters dialogue within communities to stimulate local responses, and according to the report, has had promising results in dealing with various issues including HIV, female genital cutting and other customary practices, and multiple sexual partners.

The report states that focusing on social and gender norms is overlooked by many interventions that seek an immediate solution, but their importance should not be underestimated. Gender norms or beliefs in a society that encourages female passivity towards violence and coercion or male aggression increase the imbalance of power in sexual relationships between young females and older males. Cross-generational sex may be a symptom of gender imbalances inherent in societies.

The brief concludes with key recommendations for future programming. These include:

• youth need to be involved in all aspects of programmes;
• messages and interventions designed for young people need to be carefully crafted;
• community-based approaches are key; and
• rigorous scientific data is still needed.