Key Social Norms Take-aways Although South African learners have a legal right to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, social norms—such as stigma, adult judgment, and peer pressure—undermine their ability to access them. Gendered expectations particularly disadvantage girls, who are judged more harshly for seeking condoms or related services. Changing these norms requires respectful, youth-centered approaches and targeted advocacy to address misinformation and value-based resistance.
Objectives To explore how secondary school learners in South Africa perceive the proposed policy to provide condoms and SRH services in schools, and how social norms influence their attitudes and access.
Methods Researchers conducted 16 focus group discussions with 116 learners aged 12 and older from 33 public schools across South Africa’s nine provinces. Participants were selected through UNICEF programs and grouped by gender. Thematic analysis using NVivo identified key social dynamics shaping learner responses.
Results Many learners initially resisted the idea of condom provision in schools, believing it would encourage early sexual activity or distract from learning. However, support for other SRH services—such as HIV testing and counseling—was widespread due to poor access and negative experiences with clinics. Girls reported being especially stigmatized when seeking care, both by health workers and peers. Learners emphasized the importance of confidentiality, respect, and nonjudgmental treatment when accessing services. Many also noted that social pressures—fear of gossip, judgment from teachers, and peer stigma—were major deterrents, more so than the services themselves. As discussions progressed, some learners began to express more empathy for peers with different needs, and reconsidered their initial opposition to in-school services.
Conclusions Legal rights to SRH services are not enough—social norms continue to shape whether learners, especially girls, feel safe using them. For the policy on condom and SRH provision in schools to succeed, efforts must focus on changing school and community attitudes. Ensuring services are confidential, respectful, and youth-friendly is essential to overcoming stigma and promoting access.