Key Social Norms Take-aways This study reveals that gender and power relations among young adults in Malawi are shaped by competing narratives—tradition, unity, and rights—each reflecting different social norms. Traditional norms emphasize male authority and women’s obedience, but participants also expressed support for more collaborative (unity) or rights-based gender relations. The concept of “power with” (shared power) emerged as an alternative to “power over” (dominance), suggesting unity-based narratives can serve as a culturally resonant pathway for gender-transformative interventions. Social norms are dynamic and contested, highlighting the need for contextually grounded interventions responsive to shifting understandings of gender.
Objectives The study explored how young adults in Malawi perceive gender and power relations in intimate partnerships and how these conceptions relate to sexual and reproductive health, focusing on social norms and changing gender equity ideals.
Methods Using a qualitative design, the study conducted eight focus group discussions with 62 married and unmarried young men and women (ages 16–24) in rural southern Malawi. Discussions were guided by the Theory of Gender and Power (TGP), exploring the sexual division of labour, power, and social norms (cathexis). Transcripts were thematically coded, using both deductive and inductive approaches, to identify and categorize narratives on gender and power.
Social Norms Measures Social norms were explored through focus group discussions prompting participants to reflect on ideal relationships, household roles, and sources of relationship power. Narratives were categorized into three frameworks: tradition (patriarchal norms), unity (collaboration and shared decision-making), and rights (individual freedoms, especially women’s rights), each reflecting different cultural ideals and tensions.
Results Participants expressed a mix of traditional and progressive views. Tradition narratives were dominant, supporting male authority and hierarchical household roles. Unity narratives emphasized love, mutual respect, and joint decision-making. Rights narratives—though more contested—reflected support for women’s autonomy and education but were sometimes seen as disruptive to family harmony. While tradition was widely accepted, unity narratives gained traction, especially when linked to shared survival and relationship quality. Participants often held contradictory views, supporting traditional roles while endorsing collaborative ideals.
Conclusions Gender-responsive interventions must recognize and address the coexistence of traditional, unity, and rights-based narratives. Programs should not solely focus on rights-based empowerment but also incorporate unity-based frameworks aligning with community values. Emphasizing shared power and mutual respect may offer a culturally grounded entry point for challenging patriarchal norms while minimizing backlash.