ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the way in which changing cultural practices and prescriptions provide the context in which Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is transmitted, creating a specific pattern of risk or set of risk factors. It provides particular attention to the articulation of cultural influences—both 'traditional' and 'external'—especially in relation to sexual behaviour. The chapter examines the way in which certain 'cultural practices' may become harmful in the context of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and especially the way in which an evolving articulation of cultural beliefs and practices in respect of sexual initiation, courtship and casual sex may create particular hazards. It deals with exploring the specificity characterising the epidemic in particular locales, alongside elements of broader commonality, by looking across two regions —Africa and South Asia. The chapter focuses on the situation of young people. Specific risk configurations, however, vary among young people depending on their social location, as defined by gender, cultural context, class position, education, and other factors.
