ABSTRACT

In Japan, a popular term to convince that a woman is doing something meaningful is “tsuma to shite (haha to shite),” which translates as “as a wife (and as a mother).” When used by career women, female politicians, and actresses, the phrase continues with “as a career woman/politician/actress.” A woman’s professional achievement is considered more solid and trustworthy if she can present herself as a “comprehensive woman.” For example, Ryoko Tani, an Olympic medalist in judo, emphasizes that she is also a good wife and mother. 1 A Japanese woman cannot really say of herself that she acts only “as a working woman,” while a housewife can say “as a wife (and as a mother).” A woman’s professional achievement alone is not enough to win respect, especially the respect of other women.