Participatory methods often utilize visual techniques to collect data regarding attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs. Building upon the work of Andrea Cornwall, who used body mapping with women in Zimbabwe to understand beliefs about the body and contraception, this technique has been introduced to health workers in Dallas, Texas and in a training at the Pojoaque Pueblo in New Mexico. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the outcomes of the use of this method among health workers and with those at risk for STDs and HIV. In several sessions, men mapped the bodies of women and women mapped male bodies, emphasizing the exploration of the affect of STDs. The exercise generated much more information, revealing stereotypical images along with "desire" on the part of both genders. This exercise can be catalyst for a discussion around power imbalances and objectification that can have a profound effect upon safer sex practices between males and females. This technique, especially used in conjunction with an "access and control" ranking exercise, has a powerful potential in addressing gender roles and body image as they relate to sexual health issues.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to: (1) Describe the use of two visual methods in assessing relationship power imbalances; (2) Understand the issues that the use of these methods can generate; and (3) Apply these methods as part of a larger participatory strategy to address sexual health issues
Keywords: Sexual Risk Behavior, Risk Mapping
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.