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Answer to Case Study #5:Faith is at risk for a variety of reasons. Her poverty makes her vulnerable to exchanging sex for money and supplies for school. The age disparity between Faith and Thomas makes her vulnerable because he has power and control over her. Her young age places her at risk biologically because her reproductive tract tissues are less mature, making it easier for infection to occur. Her lack of knowledge related to sexuality, contraception, and infection places her at risk because she is unable to perceive her own risk and is unequipped to protect herself. Cultural taboos about discussing issues related to sexuality at home or in school perpetuate myths about STIs; this also increases her risk. The gender-related factors include Thomas's refusal to use condoms because “real men” do not wear them, which stems from societal attitudes about masculinity. Socialization for women to be compliant and submissive about sex and men to be aggressive and in control about sex affects the dynamic between Faith and Thomas. His threat of violence and control of economic resources are also related to gender roles.
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