Cooperation and Conflict Between Muslim Immigrant Mothers and Daughters in the Negotiation of Girls' Sexual Conduct

Separate group discussions and individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 30 Muslim immigrant mothers and 38 daughters (age range 14--20) in the state of Illinois during 2001--2002. Analyses revealed that for this group, negotiations in each area were rarely characterized by conflict, and more often than not by mutual agreement. A firm grasp of religion, a clear understanding of duties and obligations in the family, as well as daughters' need to balance family demands and socialization with non-Muslim peers had a role on daughters' agency in negotiating decisions about wearing hijab, virginity until marriage, opposite-sex friendships, dating and marriage. Moreover, findings showed that little communication regarding sexuality as a private experience happened between mothers and daughters, and that which occurred was confined primarily to the risks of premarital sexual relationships to the social order. Although girls reported that school-based sexuality classes could give them useful, scientific information, they perceived that these programs were insensitive to girls' experiences and decisions to abstain from premarital sex. Given these perceptions, girls often opted for not participating in these classes. Implications for involvement of community-based organizations and further collaboration between Muslim parents and schools are discussed.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Human Resources and Family Studies

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2015

Author dc:creator

• Orgocka, Aida

Contributors dc:contributor

• Gale E. Summerfield

• Sociology, Ethnic and Racial Studies

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

(MiAaPQ)AAI3086149

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/87783