'Juvenile’ toilet door posting: an expression of gendered views on sex and sexuality

Abstract

This paper discusses the nature of graffiti posted on toilet walls and doors in three primary schools in Zimbabwe. The researchers have noted the proliferation of discourses concerning sex and sexuality on toilet walls and doors of both boys and girls between the ages six to thirteen. The paper seeks to disclose, and account for the salient similarities and differences on how girls and boys conceptualise issues to do with sex and sexuality. The researchers relied on sample images and expressions collected from three primary schools. These images and expressions were subjected to a thorough analysis. Interviews and questionnaires targeting the primary school teachers regarding the nature of social clubs catering for the social aspects of pupils (e.g. drama, scripture union and debate) and how they address issues concerning sex and sexuality also helped to broaden the analysis. It was noted that in the public space, issues of sex and sexuality were censored. This made toilet door posting, arguably, the most accessible alternative in addressing these issues in a more explicit manner. Interestingly, both girls and boys were equally involved in the posting culture. Gender differences were more in terms of the degree and manner of explication than of subject matter. Spaces for discussing issues of sex need to be opened up so that pupils manage to express themselves clearly. Such a move will allow for a broader and richer understanding of these issues. Differences arising due to gender will also be harmonised.