Asian American women’s experiences of sexual socialization are shaped by gendered, racial/ethnic, and intersectional systems of power. Yet, empirical studies rarely center their voices to understand how these forces influence sexual relationships, sexual consent, and sexual assault. To address this gap, this study adopted an intersectional lens to qualitatively explore how gendered, racial/ethnic, and intersectional influences shape Asian American college women’s sexual socialization. We conducted in-depth individual interviews with 24 Asian American college women in the New York metropolitan area and analyzed the data using thematic content analysis. Four overarching themes were identified: (1) gendered norms and messages about power, sex, and victim-blaming; (2) racial/ethnic influences, including taboos around sex, lack of family communication, and pressures to maintain family reputation; (3) intersectional experiences of sexual racism; and (4) responses and strategies, including internalized blame and efforts to break cycles of silence. These intersecting forces undermined women’s sexual agency, contributed to gendered racialized objectification and sexual assault, and created substantial barriers to disclosure. Despite these challenges, many women expressed a desire to resist harmful norms and advocate for change for future generations. This study contributes to the limited literature on Asian American women’s sexual socialization through an intersectional lens, offering insights into their lived experiences. Findings underscore the critical need for culturally responsive sexual health interventions, including parent- or family-based communication programs, strengths-based empowerment approaches, culturally responsive sex education, and trauma-informed, peer-delivered support.
Qualitative analysis of Asian American college women’s sexual socialization and experiences with sexual relationships, sexual consent, and sexual assault: Advancing an intersectional conceptual framework
Social Science and Medicine, 406, 119641. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2026.119641.