This study examines the influence of social networks on the sexual relations of migrant construction workers in Ha Noi, Viet Nam. Research included observation and interviews with members of two different groups of workers. The first group, together with their employer (cai), came from the same village; the second group came from different villages. Of interest in the present study was how social relationships among workers and their employers influence extra-marital sexual activity. In the group where workers and their cai came from the same village of origin, fear of acquiring a bad reputation made these workers reluctant to seek sex services, since accounts of their behaviour were transmitted quickly home. In contrast, workers from the group who came from different villages often went out together to purchase sex. The absence of direct links to their villages of origin made it easier for these latter workers to conceal their activity. The implication of these findings for sexual safety and risk are discussed.

construction workers Extra-marital sex Viet Nam Social networks

Social Values Vietnam sexual behavior Safe Sex construction work human employer middle aged Interprofessional Relations rural population controlled study priority journal social network social interaction Data collection method Morals Men interview marriage migrant worker Humans workplace social control male female Viet Nam Article Extramarital Relations adult Social Environment attitude to sexuality Cultural Characteristics Transients and Migrants