Abstract

SEVILLA PENUELA, Teresita María. "Unsafe sex": An analysis of rationality as part of risk among youths from Cali, Colombia. Rev.latinoam.cienc.soc.niñez juv [online]. 2008, vol.6, n.1, pp.257-294. ISSN 1692-715X.

This paper is framed within the ongoing debate about the concept of risk in the social and human sciences between the so-called "realist current", which assumes that risk-taking behaviors are irrational and those that avoid risk are a product of rationality, and the position taken by social constructivism, which interprets risk-taking not as an isolated, irrational event, but as an answer to complex logics that are peculiar to the socio-cultural context where such option is taken. Supporting the latter position, this paper works out part of the results of an ethnographic study among youths form Cali, Colombia, conducted for a doctoral dissertation in sociology. The aims of the study were (1): to characterize the logics of rationality that uphold certain practices in matters of sexuality, in the light of factors like gender and SES, and (2): to analyze the conception of risk beyond its traditional negative connotation, in order to explore the possible functions and positive values assigned by the subjects coherently with their socio-economic environment. Starting from the notions of gender analysis (in the dimensions or relationship, historicity and power structures) and of SES (conceived as a category that goes beyond the strictly economic aspects), it was possible to identify elements like a positive appraisal of not using condoms, gender differences in the selection of sexual partners, and the rewards offered by having a child at an early age. These elements, among others, play a fundamental role in the processes of risk negotiation. En this sense, it is argued that risk-taking behaviors are inserted in dense meaning fabrics strongly linked to social and contextual conditions.

Keywords : Safe sex; unsafe sex; risk; decision-making; social constructivism; adolescents; youths; Colombia.

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