Document Type
Working Paper
Publication Date
2009
Abstract
The aim of this report is to explore experiences of sexual relations and factors (including, for example, those at the individual, parental, peer, and college levels) associated with premarital sex, safe and otherwise, among college-going male and female students in Gujarat, India. Findings suggest that awareness of sexual and reproductive matters was relatively limited, attitudes to premarital sex typically gendered, and fewer than half of all students had been exposed to sexuality education in school or college. Romantic partnerships and physical intimacy were reported by considerable proportions of male and female students; premarital sex among notable minorities; and unsafe sex, and even the experience of abortion characterized many sexual relationships among young students. In this context, it is critical that policies and programs for students work toward ensuring that in forming partnerships, youth are fully informed and equipped to make safe choices. These findings suggest at least four areas for intervention that are outlined in the report.
Recommended Citation
Sujay, Rachna. 2009. "Premarital sexual behaviour among unmarried college students of Gujarat, India," Health and Population Innovation Fellowship Programme Working Paper no. 9. New Delhi: Population Council.
DOI
10.31899/rh5.1022
Language
English
Project
Health and Population Innovation (HPI) Fellowship Program
Included in
Demography, Population, and Ecology Commons, Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, International Public Health Commons