Abstract
Using a qualitative research approach informed by a social constructionist framework, this study looks at the under-researched topic of male virginity as a stigma amongst undergraduate male students at the University of Johannesburg. It explores the meanings of male virginity and male virginity stigma and, consequently, addresses the dominant masculine heterosexual sexual norm and sexual double standard of virginity/female and non-virginity/male connection prevalent in studies and literature on sex, sexuality, and virginity. It further explores how this societal gendered double standard sexual practise affects and constrains young men’s sexual choices, which may be counterproductive to preventative public sexual health messages to combat unwanted pregnancies, STIs and HIV/AIDS.
Nine conversational interviews were conducted with young cisgender heterosexual male students and were analysed to understand how cisgender, heterosexual male-identified people experience virginity and the stigma that potentially surrounds it. Findings from this study suggest that male virginity is constructed as non-normative and a subject that is not talked about. When it is talked about, male virgins are seen as non-masculine and a source of ridicule. Despite this, the study has shown that most participants are aware and open to alternative ways of being men and identify male virginity as a gift and process rather than a stigma. The pejorative ways participants characterised male virgins do, however, make apparent the need for alternative approaches that challenge the patriarchal norms and dominant and toxic masculine ideals and encourage young men to be targeted for shame and ridicule when they deviate from mainstream sexual expectations and norms.