An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Token Resistance to Sex amongst Nigerian Undergraduates

It is apparent that existing social conventions unofficially mandates women to refuse sexual advances even when there may be the intention to engage. The adherence to this social script is what is referred to as token resistance or scripted refusal. Some studies have explored the subject of token resistance from a number of perspectives that attempt to identify the underlying reasons why women engaging in token resistance. However, there is very little research on this subject from the Nigerian perspective. This this study sought to explore token resistance further in order to understand the cultural cogency or peculiarity of the concept in the Nigerian context. This is because based on available literature, the conceptualization of token resistance may be different. With the use of purposive sampling technique, four sexually active women and undergraduates, volunteered to participate in the study. They were interviewed to understand their unique experiences and perception about token resistance using the principles of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) It was discovered that factors like personal pride, self-control, emotional security of relationship and the gratification of increased attention were responsible for women’s rejection of sexual advances even when there was the intention to do so. The study also got a better understanding of how women culturally represent this concept in Nigeria. We highlight limitations of the study and suggest areas for further study research

Exploring Token Resistance to Sexual advances among undergraduates in a Nigerian University setting

It may appear that existing social conventions delicately predisposes women to refuse sexual advances even when there may be intention to engage. The adherence to this social script is what is referred to as token resistance or scripted refusal. Several studies have explored token resistance by attempting to identify the underlying reasons why women engaging in token resistance. However, from available literature, there is very little on this subject matter in the Nigerian context. In this study, token resistance was explored further to understand the cultural cogency of the concept using Nigerian participants. Four female undergraduates of who described themselves as sexually active volunteered to participate in the study in one-on-one interviews. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to analyze their perceptions and experiences by identify the emerging themes and meaning making processes of the participants. It was observed that aspects like personal pride, self-control, emotional security of relationship and the gratification of increased attention were responsible for women’s rejection of sexual advances even when there was the intention to do so. Participants also attempted to provide a cultural representation of the concept. Implications of findings are discussed, and areas of further research suggeste