Virginity Beliefs and Gender in Malaysia: A Stigma Frame Analysis

Abstract Background: In various cultures, virginity is not only seen as a physiological state but an important symbol of purity as it is associated with morality, reputation within the community and family honor (1). The female virginity is often implicitly communicated through family and religious institutions, framing a woman’s body and chastity as points of collective honor (1). In an era of globalization and digital connectivity, such traditional paradigms are faced with modern, interest-based beliefs t