ABSTRACT
This chapter describes how cultural construction of gender and sexuality and socio-economic transformation in Thai society combine to shape adolescent girls’ experiences of being women and of their emerging sexuality. Data regarding gender-specific activities were gathered mostly in the school, with additional observations made in people’s homes and at community activities. Group discussions were held among six groups of young women. Thai cultural constructs emphasize the notion of male superiority in politics and religion. Buddhist ideology has been manipulated through male hegemony to oppress women via cultural and moral patterns in Thai society. Women may become nuns but may not be ordained as monks. Socialization to develop distinctive feminine and masculine style begins from birth. As they enter kindergarten, girls and boys move into a world where gender differences are rigidly defined in many respects, such as style of dress, sports and social activities.
