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Holmes, Tabitha, Vermeulen, Karla, Winograd, Greta
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Fall 2022
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2022
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DeBonis_Thesis.pdf
Adobe PDF, 654.81 KB
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The purpose of this study was to conduct an exploratory analysis of generational differences and similarities in women’s experiences of menstruation taboos in the United States. Participants (N=18) were women between the ages of 14-71, who identified as women who experienced menstruation at least once. A series of semi structured interviews were conducted remotely through Zoom. To gain a better understanding of how women experience menstruation, participants were asked to tell the story about the first time they menstruated. Additionally, they were asked to describe both a negative and positive experience of menstruation. Six emergent themes were identified from the interviews using a grounded theory approach that included: Maternal Imperative, Exposure of Menstrual Status/ “Failure” to Conceal, Liberation, and Connection. Emergent themes were compared cross-generationally and within each generation. Overall, Gen Z participants described a more supportive reaction from maternal figures compared to the other generations. Boomers and Gen X participants reported no supportive reactions. Additionally, Gen Z indicated that their positive experiences were liberating compared to other generations. Although emergent themes were present across all generations the sub-theme occurrence varied. Findings were discussed as they relate to and challenge menstruation taboos.
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