Discourse of Prevention or Pleasure: A Discourse Analysis of Condom Use and Non- Condom Use Scripts of University of Zimbabwe Students
Leslei Kahari and Prosper Takavarasha

Abstract
Condoms can be highly successful in preventing transmission of many common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) and are integral to many safer-sex campaigns. University students are at a high risk of contracting HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections but their rate of condom use is low. The purpose of this study is to investigate the discourse of condom use and non-condom use among University of Zimbabwe ,Faculty of Arts students. The data for this qualitative study was collected from 84 students using questionnaires and interviews. The study shows that the cultural narratives, metaphors and discourse around condoms work to create the reality of condom use and non-condom use. Condoms are shown to be socially mediated, value laden objects that reflect diverse peer, family and societal norms. Data was analysed using the discourse analysis and interpretive analysis framework .The data from the study will be useful in designing and improving HIV/AIDS prevention programmes in Zimbabwe.

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