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Social Construction of Manhood in Nigeria: Implications for Male Responsibility in Reproductive Health
This paper examines social construction of masculinity and manhood and
gender socialisation among the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria,
with the aid of a combination of qualitative and quantitative data. The
sample included male and female, young and old respondents,
representing the Yoruba of the Southwest, the Igbo of the Southeast and
the Hausa of the North. The study found that, in general, manhood is
usually strongly associated with the social position in the family and
the physical capability to satisfy the sexual needs of the female
partner(s) and to produce children. Decision-making authority,
including decision on reproduction, is largely vested in the man.
Gender socialising for developing boys into men, including their sexual
behaviour, is largely affected by instruction from the mother and the
example of the father, while role enactment is closely monitored by the
society. Even though significant socio-cultural differences between
ethnic groups were found in gender socialising and the resultant roles,
male dominance is pervasive and affects reproductive behaviour and
health status of both males and females. Change in gender roles,
including sexual relationships, will require enlightenment on the need
for greater male responsibility in their relationship with females