Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Program Name/Specialization

Community Psychology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Dr. Ciann L. Wilson

Advisor Role

Thesis Supervisor

Abstract

This thesis explores the experiences of young African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) women in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) regarding how they navigate sexual health. Young ACB women face challenges that put them at increased risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Despite this, few studies have focused on the social contexts that affect sexual health for ACB women in Canada. This Community Based Participatory Research ( CBPR) study (N = 24) utilized focus groups to examine young ACB women's experiences navigating sexual health. In the following thesis document, I present two manuscripts where I share a) a reflection on the process of engaging in a community-based sexual health project for young Black women andb) a results article that examines social factors that impact how young Black women navigate sexual health. A consideration of this research is to highlight how the intersectional nature of race and gender, creates challenges for young ACB women. This thesis follows the theoretical frameworks of Critical Race Theory(CRT), Intersectionality, and Reproductive Justice (RJ) to explore how ACB women are positioned within structures of power. This paper intends to add to scholarly discourse. It will also include strategies for use by researchers and community practitioners in sexual health care in the ACB community, specifically with young women.

Convocation Year

2020

Convocation Season

Spring

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