Changing Cultural Practices: A Case Study of Male Circumcision in South Africa

Abstract

This article presents a case study of Simon, a 25-year old Black South African male. According to his Pedi customs, Simon underwent traditional male circumcision (TMC) as a 12-year-old adolescent. He tells of his fears relative to this experience and how, over time, he transitioned from a belief in TMC to a strong preference for medical male circumcision (MMC). Using a single-case study design, the aim of the research was to explore the value of the exercise of choice in TMC, which may influence cultural perceptions of gender and masculinity. The study unpacks the way in which the meaning and experience of TMC is shaped by the social and cultural contexts of South Africa. This qualitative exploration complements conventional medical accounts of circumcision, which are often focused on the medical procedure while ignoring cultural and social factors. Issues of gender, particularly the construction of hegemonic masculinity and how it positions men, women, and young boys in relation to each other and their communities, are discussed. Simon’s case study provides new insights and perspectives on personally and culturally sensitive issues which are not easily accessed nor commonly understood. Data collected via in-depth interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically. Analysis applied information from the literature and key concepts from the theoretical standpoint of social constructivism. Case study analysis allowed space for unexpected, emergent themes to arise from the data. Four main themes were identified, notably language, silence, patriarchy, and masculinity.

Effects of Masculine Culture on the Mental Health of Northern Sotho Male Youth

“…She went on to point out that traditionally, males were responsible for tasks such as hunting, herding, and protection, while women were frequently in charge of home administration, childcare, and agricultural pursuits. This was and continues to be reinforced by the patriarchal social system, which Nkosi 44 and Palmer et al 47 veri ed to be a frequent characteristic in Northern Sotho households since the father or eldest male is often viewed as the head of the home. The father, as alluded to in the latter, has the power and oversee family-related choices and/or decisions.…”

“…The father, as alluded to in the latter, has the power and oversee family-related choices and/or decisions. According to Palmer et al 47 patriarchal characteristics are frequently taught and reinforced to young boys during initiation ceremonies, such as traditional male circumcision, also known as "koma", which is not only a rite of passage but also one of the key cultural practices marking the passage from childhood to adulthood for Northern Sotho males.…”