Intergenerational or age-disparate transactional relationships are commonly characterized as relationships where there is an age gap of 10 or more years or 5-9 years, respectively, between partners, and an exchange of money or gifts in return for sex. Referred to as “blesser-blessee” relationships in some parts of South Africa, typically an older man provides money and/or pays for a girl’s expenses such as bus fares to school, school supplies, meals, clothes, or other things in exchange for sex and companionship. While the blessee can benefit from the money and materials that the blesser provides, unequal power in the relationship due to differences in age, status, or access to resources can impact a girls’ ability to decide if, when, and how to have sex, negotiate contraception, including condom use, and decide if and when to end the relationship. As a result, girls can face increased risk of contracting HIV and other STIs, unintended pregnancy, violence, and low self-esteem. Sometimes girls can get pressured into getting a blesser by friends, family, or economic circumstances and talking to a trusted adult can be one way to help navigate any pressures and/or explore other ways to get support.

Sexuality education can help equip girls with knowledge and skills to navigate situations where they may be pressured into a relationship and to help prevent unintended pregnancy, STIs, and violence.