The realities of romance - How young women in Zimbabwe navigate the perceived norms and expectations of romantic relationships

Abstract: The aim of this thesis is to shed light on how young women in Zimbabwe navigate the perceived norms and expectations surrounding romantic relationships with men. The research questions are on the perceived norms and expectations are, how women are informed about them, and how they navigate these norms and expectations. Using the theory of changing social norms and the theory of patriarchal bargain, data consisting of answers from eight informants is analyzed. Coupled with information from five organizations to fully comprehend the results. The analysis illustrates a restricted and norm-controlled reality for women – women should not engage in pre-marital sex, but instead marry, have children, and primarily take on a supportive role to their male partners. The results also demonstrate that some women uphold these norms and patriarchal values. Yet, they also discussed how gaining financial independence, and therefore power, could influence the structures of romantic relationships.