Becoming a Man in Silence: Peer Learning, Masculinity, and Reproductive Health Knowledge Formation among Punjab’s Adolescents

Abstract

Adolescence represents an important stage when boys learn about their bodies and form masculine identities through culturally definite social settings. This qualitative research paper explores the interaction of masculinity, silence and peer learning with each other to form knowledge among Pakistani adolescents. Purposive sampling was used to collect the data; participant observation and in-depth interviews were conducted with 7 male adolescents of Sargodha and Mianwali, Punjab. Thematic analysis determined patterns that were repeated in the experiences of the participants. Results show that learned information is channeled through familial and institutional silence structures to peer networks and digital environments where it is disseminated informally, in a hierarchy, and inaccurately. Peer learning is a major source of instructions but it is influenced by the elements of power, expectations of performances and exposure to content without contextual supports. The paper points out the necessity of sensitive to culture, gender-sensitive interventions that establish safe, guided spaces, enabling more positive healthier knowledge accumulation and a more favorable transition to adulthood.