Cross-generational relationships: using a ‘Continuum of Volition’ in HIV prevention work among young people

Recognising the link between HIV infection in adolescents / especially girls / and cross-generational relationships, Save the Children has been working with local partners to develop locally appropriate strategies that help to protect girls and to foster their ability to ensure the safety of these relationships, or to enable them to make alternative choices. This article addresses youth, gender and HIV/AIDS prevention in Malawi. It describes the ‘Continuum of Volition’ developed by Save the Children as an explanatory model to help understand the motivations of young women for engaging in cross-generational relationships, as well as to guide the development of appropriate intervention strategies.