An exploration of the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Xhosa men concerning traditional circumcision
Date
2017-10
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AOSIS publishing
Abstract
Background: The practice of traditional circumcision is associated with considerable morbidity
and mortality, yet there is a paucity of literature that provides an understanding of the cultural
values that influence men to choose traditional rather than medical circumcision.
The aim of this study was to better understand the culture surrounding traditional circumcision,
with a view to addressing morbidity and mortality rates associated with the Xhosa male
initiation rituals.
We explored Xhosa men’s perceptions regarding the need for the risks and the social pressure
to undergo traditional circumcision, the impact of non-initiation or failed initiation and the
perceived barriers to obtaining medical help for the complications of traditional circumcisions.
Methods: Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 purposively sampled
teenagers and adult men. The interviews were recorded, translated, transcribed and analysed
using the framework method.
Results: Traditional circumcision was seen as essential to Xhosa culture. Participants
rationalised many reasons for participating, including personal growth and development,
family and peer pressure, independence and knowledge gained, a connection with ancestors
and initiation into manhood. Despite publicity of the dangers of traditional circumcision and
the hardships they have to endure, most young men still saw this process as necessary and
worthwhile.
Conclusion: Traditional initiation and circumcision are here to stay. The majority of boys still
trust the elders and supernatural processes to guide them. However, some participants
welcomed government initiatives to reduce human error causing unnecessary death and
suffering. Current systems to prevent morbidity and mortality are insufficient and should be
prioritised.
Description
CITATION: Froneman, S. & Kapp, P.A. 2017. An exploration of the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Xhosa men concerning traditional circumcision. African Journal of Primary Health care & Family Medicine, 9(1):a1454. doi:10.4102/phcfm.v9i1.1454.
The original publication is available at https://phcfm.org/index.php/phcfm
The original publication is available at https://phcfm.org/index.php/phcfm
Keywords
Circumcision, Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs, Xhosa (African people) -- Rites and ceremonies
Citation
Froneman, S & Kapp, P.A. 2017. An exploration of the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Xhosa men concerning traditional circumcision. African Journal of Primary Health care & Family Medicine, 9(1):a1454. doi:10.4102/phcfm.v9i1.1454.