Perception of Womanhood and Femininty among Qatari Women : A Qualitative Study Of

Abstract

This study explores the perception of womanhood and femininity among Qatari women and critically investigates to which extent their perception is different from mainstream patriarchal perception. Furthermore, this study examines how womenطs perceptions of womanhood and femininity fit in the national discourse about woman empowerment and public agency. In this regard, semi- structured interviews with open ended questions were conducted with seventeen Qatari women. The participants were selected from different age groups and different marital status in order to ensure a wide range of gender representation. The findings revealed six themes as a definition of femininity, these themes are: (1) physical appearance, (2) modesty (3) relationship with husband (4) sexual orientation, (5) occupation and hobbies, (6) personal traits. While womanhood was identified in term of theses 6 themes: (1) Family, (2) Regulation and rules. (3) Personal traits (4) Agency (5) professional life. (6) Changes in Qatari Women's Role. While some women participants in this study have expressed affinities to patriarchal values, nevertheless, there were indications of critical attitudes toward some patriarchal values, and signs of individuality in developing different perceptions. One of the main implications of this study is that it represents an intervention for Qatari women to reflect on their perceptions and understanding of gender subjectivities, and to create a more individual understanding of their being as women and feminine. If the women empowerment project is perceived as a struggle between traditional perception of woman and gender, and women's own beliefs and values, this study could provide critical insight and inspiration to recognize the potential social agency for women both in public and private life.