An Intergenerational Study into the Attitudes and Behaviours towards Girls amongst People in the Somali/Somaliland Diaspora in London

  • Isha Ali Abdulkadir

Student thesis: Doctoral Thesis

Abstract

My doctoral research explores intergenerational mindsets around the practice of FGM among London based Somalia and Somaliland’s diaspora. The research focuses on examining the extent to which the younger generation has rejected the practice of FGM and on what grounds. Importantly, the research looks to explore what influenced those changes in mindsets. This research is important as very little is known about how intergenerational shifts occur in relation to the practice. A qualitative approach is taken in exploring the gendered values and beliefs of women and men in the Somalia/Somaliland diaspora in London. In doing so I am able to reveal a multitude of tensions and contradictions in how they frame ‘tradition ’and specifically FGM. Whilst attitudes are slowly shifting it is not without considerable resistance from those who retain highly rigid gendered codes causing tensions between generations. Current studies of FGM focus on why it happens and much less on how mindsets may be shifting. My research findings reveal not just that young people are forcing shifts in how they express their cultural heritage, but also the importance of engaging young men in the movement for change. The findings also shown the importance of reframing FGM as a form of violence that must be tackled alongside all other forms.
Date of Award20 Mar 2024
Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
  • University of Portsmouth
SupervisorTamsin Bradley (Supervisor), Zara Ramsay (Supervisor) & Lana Chikhungu (Supervisor)

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