A description of sweethearting in The Bahamas
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15362/ijbs.v31i2.641Keywords:
Sweethearting, Extramarital relationships, Interpersonal relationships, Bahamian cultureAbstract
This study provides insights on sweethearting in The Bahamas using data from an internet-based survey. A total of 10,393 persons entered the survey, of which 6,714 were retained for analysis based on eligibility criteria. The results reveal several important patterns: (a) both males and females, regardless of marital status, reported involvement in sweethearting relationships; (b) married respondents were more likely to report having a single sexual partner compared to unmarried respondents, but a notable proportion reported multiple partners; (c) males tended to report higher numbers of current intimate partners and were more likely to perceive their sweetheart as a better sexual partner than their primary partner; (d) sweethearting relationships often involved financial exchange, with females more likely to receive money and gifts than males; (e) emotional needs were a significant motivator, with many respondents indicating that their sweetheart made them feel “needed”; (f) both male and female respondents reported instances of sexual abuse within sweethearting relationships—both as victims and perpetrators; (g) condom use was inconsistent, heightening risks related to STIs, particularly among those with multiple concurrent partners; and (h) some respondents expressed a desire to marry or have children with their sweetheart, although these intentions were less common among married individuals. The implications of these findings are discussed in the Bahamian context.
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