ANTHMETHGRP2-2425-LULU-ZHANG

[Last modified: December, 8 2024 03:50 PM]

My research topic is Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Marriage and Childbearing: A Comparative Study of Western and Chinese Women’s Views. During taking this module, I have come to realize the importance of ethics and positionality in cross-cultural research, especially when dealing with sensitive topics like marriage and childbearing. Initially, I did not fully understand the complexities of ethical considerations, such as data protection, participant privacy, and the influence of cultural differences. Now, I recognize that maintaining transparency, ensuring informed consent, and protecting participants’ rights are fundamental throughout the research process.

Firstly, ethics is the most important. Given the personal nature of marriage and childbearing, I will ensure that participants voluntarily engage in the research with full awareness of the study’s goals, the data collection process, and how their information will be used. To achieve this, I will employ methods such as semi-structured interviews and participant observation, ensuring that participants are fully informed before engaging. Informed consent will be clearly outlined, with transparency about how the data will be collected, stored, and analyzed. Confidentiality will be strictly maintained throughout, with all personal data anonymized. Furthermore, I will adhere to data protection standards, ensuring that any identifying information is securely stored and that participants’ privacy is fully respected throughout the research process. This ethical framework will guide my interactions with participants and shape how I collect and interpret the data, ensuring the integrity of the study.

Secondly, positionality is crucial in cross-cultural studies. I now recognize that my own cultural background, whether as a Western or Chinese researcher, can influence how I interact with participants and interpret their responses. I must be mindful of my biases and avoid imposing my own cultural values onto participants. Reflecting on my position throughout the research will help me stay open to diverse perspectives and ensure cultural sensitivity, especially when discussing topics like family pressures or reproductive rights.

Finally, in terms of participant recruitment, I have learned the importance of reaching a wide and diverse audience in an ethical manner. I will use social media platforms (like Weibo and Instagram) for open recruitment and engage with community organizations or events to find participants. This approach will ensure that the recruitment process is transparent and voluntary, and it will help minimize any ethical concerns around coercion.

By reflecting on ethics and positionality, I aim to conduct a fair, respectful, and culturally sensitive study that fully considers the rights and perspectives of participants.

[Last modified: December, 3 2024 05:03 PM]

Last class we talked about the first case——”Research on Women Survivors of Domestic Abuse in Pakistan”. Conducting research on sensitive topics like domestic abuse demands the highest ethical standards to safeguard the safety and dignity of participants while ensuring the reliability of the study. Below are some solutions we talked for this high-risk issue.

First and foremost, obtaining informed consent is critical. While the participant expressed her willingness to share her story publicly with her real name, the researcher must fully inform her of the potential risks, including retaliation from her abuser or societal backlash. The priority must be the participant’s safety, even if it means overriding her initial preference to disclose her identity. Anonymization—using pseudonyms and removing any identifying details—is an essential measure to mitigate risks. Even if written consent is absent, the researcher should document oral consent in a manner that safeguards the participant’s privacy and security.

The participant’s safety remains paramount throughout the research process. If her story is made public, it could provoke further violence from the abuser. To address this, the researcher must collaborate closely with the NGO running the refuge to establish a comprehensive safety plan. This plan should include access to secure housing, psychological support, and legal aid. Such protective measures should not be limited to the duration of the research but should extend beyond it, ensuring the participant’s long-term well-being.

Equally important is the safety of the researcher. Conducting fieldwork in such a volatile context may expose the researcher to significant risks, especially if the research is perceived as a threat by the abuser or local communities. Therefore, the researcher must take precautions such as choosing secure locations for interviews, maintaining discretion about the research activities, and preparing contingency plans for emergencies.

Cultural sensitivity is another critical aspect. The experiences of domestic abuse survivors are deeply embedded in their social and cultural context. The researcher must approach the study with respect for these cultural dynamics, avoiding misunderstandings or misrepresentations stemming from an external perspective. Collaborating with the NGO and engaging with local stakeholders will enable the researcher to navigate these cultural intricacies while maintaining ethical and respectful research practices.

Finally, the research must undergo rigorous review by an ethics committee and be subjected to continuous oversight throughout its progression. Such scrutiny ensures that ethical standards are upheld and that emerging challenges are promptly addressed.

[Last modified: November, 27 2024 01:41 PM]

Last class, in order to complete the multimodal ethnography observation task, I went to a furniture store with my classmates.

Walking into the furniture store, I immediately feel that every detail worked together to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The soft, warm lighting wasn’t just functional—it felt intentional, casting a cozy glow that made the space feel like home. According to multimodal principles, visual elements like lighting don’t work alone but interact with other sensory cues, and here it set the emotional tone perfectly.

The background music added another layer to the experience. It was soft and calming, with slow, melodic rhythms that seemed to harmonize with the lighting. Together, these elements didn’t just fill the space but shaped how I felt—relaxed, open, and engaged. Multimodal design emphasizes the interplay between senses, and this store used sound and sight to guide my emotional connection to the environment.

As I explored, the textures invited touch—the softness of the sofas, the smooth wood of tables, and the plushness of rugs. These tactile elements didn’t exist in isolation; they complemented the visual and auditory cues, reinforcing the sense of comfort and quality. The furniture arrangements, mimicking real home settings, made it easy to imagine these pieces in my own space. We even talked a lot about whether we should put this furniture in our home, and imagined the future of using it while trying it out.

As I walked through the space, I noticed how the arrangement of furniture created a flow that guided me naturally from one section to another. This spatial design encouraged interaction, making me feel like an active participant rather than just a passive observer.

This experience brought to life the idea that knowledge and perception in multimodal contexts are constructed through the interaction of multiple sensory inputs. It wasn’t just a showroom—it was a narrative, a sensory journey that drew me in and connected me emotionally to the space and its offerings. Multimodal design isn’t just about adding sensory layers; it’s about weaving them together to create meaning, which this store achieved beautifully.

[Last modified: November, 19 2024 01:38 AM]

Taking the Victoria Line every day to school has become such a routine that I barely notice the details of the journey anymore. The route feels like a blur—station names like Highbury & Islington or Euston announced in the same monotone voice day after day. It’s almost like my body has gone on autopilot, navigating the crowds and platforms without much conscious effort. But despite the familiarity, there’s something about the experience that always makes me have a lot of feelings.

The train is often uncomfortably warm, even in winter. The stale air seems to cling to your skin, and the faint hum of the air conditioning never really makes it any better. It’s the kind of heat that creeps into your mood, making you irritable before you’ve even realized it. I find it hard to focus—whether it’s reading something on my phone or just trying to zone out, I often get distracted with novels so I started listening to music. My attention drifts, and I start noticing the people around me instead.

There’s always a fascinating mix of passengers. Sometimes there are homeless people on the train loudly asking passengers for money, walking briskly despite leaning on crutches. Occasionally, I even encounter strange individuals holding out a wad of cash, asking if I want any—though no one else in the carriage ever takes it. As I sit there observing all this, I often feel a sense of dissociation, as if I’m merely a spectator to it all rather than someone living in this environment. This feeling deepens my sense of sadness.

Physically, the journey can be exhausting too. When the train jolts to a sudden stop or takes a sharp turn, everyone sways together, like awkward dancers in a crowded room. Standing near the doors, I often feel a gust of cold air from the connection between carriages. It’s strangely refreshing but also makes me feel exposed, almost vulnerable. In those moments, surrounded by strangers yet completely disconnected from them, a wave of loneliness sometimes hits.

By the time my stop arrives, I’m left with mixed feelings—relieved to escape the train but already dreading the same journey tomorrow. The Victoria Line may be a part of my everyday life, but it’s never just about getting from point A to point B. It’s a space where my body and mind are constantly reacting, adapting, and quietly reflecting.

[Last modified: November, 12 2024 05:48 PM]

My pilot research project explores cross-cultural perspectives on marriage and childbearing among Western and Chinese women, which inevitably involve complex political dimensions.

A key political dimension of this study is the impact of current state policies on marriage and fertility in China and certain Western countries. For example, the Chinese government has introduced a number of policies aimed at increasing the birth rate, such as allowing three children per family, implementing economic incentives for large families, and establishing a “cooling-off period” for divorce. These measures are intended to counter the effects of population aging and declining birth rates. However, these measures may have unintended consequences that may exacerbate young women’s resistance to marriage and childbearing. China’s educated young women, influenced by modern notions of gender equality and economic independence, may perceive these policies as interfering with their personal choices and thus become more reluctant to accept traditional family structures. The cooling-off period for divorce in particular raises concerns about women’s autonomy, as some see this policy as restricting women’s freedom in marital decision-making rather than addressing the underlying issues in the marriage.

Meanwhile, some certain Western countries have introduced restrictive abortion policies, such as recent legislation in parts of the United States criminalizing abortion. These policies often stem from conservative political and religious ideologies that emphasize the sanctity of life. These restrictions have a direct impact on women’s choices about marriage and reproduction, as unwanted pregnancies can lead to restricted decision-making, leaving some women forced into marriage or motherhood due to limited reproductive autonomy. For Western women, these policies are seen as a step backward for women’s rights, fueling the debate over gender equality and reproductive freedom.

My position as a Chinese women’s researcher also influenced my interactions with these political dimensions. I share a common cultural background with the Chinese participants, which may resonate with my feeling for their skepticism towards marriage and childbearing. In addition, I may unconsciously emphasize the pressures that Chinese policies place on women, which may obscure the views of Western women who view family policy from a different perspective.

In order to accommodate these political factors, my research methodology must be reflexive and ethically conscious. Additionally, I must be open to all perspectives and avoid imposing my own cultural biases when interpreting research findings.

[Last modified: October, 27 2024 10:10 PM]

[Last modified: October, 20 2024 09:56 PM]

As a Chinese female researcher, it is essential to critically reflect on my own positionality and how it might shape my research on relationships, marriage, and societal pressures faced by women. First, as someone with a Chinese cultural background, I might not fully grasp the perspectives and experiences of Western women regarding marriage and reproduction. This cultural gap could create barriers in understanding the nuances of their viewpoints, such as the topics like open relationships, which are more accepted in certain Western cultures than in China. This could suggest that I, too, may struggle to fully comprehend or engage with certain perspectives that differ greatly from my own cultural framework. To mitigate this, I need to actively adopt an open mindset and to know more about the interviewee’s background by asking further questions.

Second, as a Chinese woman, my own biases and personal experiences regarding marriage and reproduction could influence how I interpret the data. I may be inclined to focus more on the negative aspects of marriage, such as its physical and emotional toll on women, as reflected in the conversation at Table Two where C and D discussed the physical challenges of childbirth in my last week work. My possible predisposition to view marriage pessimistically may lead to an overemphasis on these negative aspects, while overlooking positive or neutral experiences that other women may have with marriage. It is crucial for me to recognize this bias and strive for a more balanced interpretation by considering diverse viewpoints, including those of women who may find fulfillment in marriage and motherhood.

Additionally, as a researcher, I must critically reflect on the ethical dimensions of my work, particularly concerning informed consent. During last week’s research session, I inadvertently recorded a conversation without obtaining allowance from the Table One. This was a clear breach of ethical research standards, and it is something I must avoid in the future. Transparency and respect for participants’ autonomy are fundamental in ensuring that research is conducted ethically. Moving forward, I will be more diligent in seeking participants’ consent before any data is recorded, ensuring that all individuals are aware of the research process and agree to their participation. This will help build trust and maintain ethical standards in my work.

In conclusion, reflecting on my positionality, biases, and ethical responsibilities allows me to recognize potential pitfalls in my research and adopt a more critical balanced, and ethically grounded approach.

[Last modified: October, 14 2024 01:57 AM]

Field Notes: Observations at a Restaurant

During my visit to a local restaurant, I started my participant observation, involving conversations around relationships, marriage, and societal pressures among young women, particular different views between girls from China and western country.

At Table One, a conversation unfolded between A, a Chinese girl, and B, a foreign male. They discussed open relationships, a topic that A found challenging to accept. She expressed that such arrangements were too unconventional for her, reflecting cultural differences. A noted that even in Western countries, accepting such relationships is not widespread among Chinese women, highlighting how cultural norms deeply influence personal choices regarding relationships.

Moving to Table Two, there is a discussion among three Chinese girls: C, D, and E, who had been educated in the UK. They delved into the implications of marriage and motherhood. C and D shared their concerns about the physical toll that childbirth can take on women’s bodies. Initially, E dismissed these concerns as rare, but as C and D provided insights and references to documentaries detailing the physical repercussions of childbirth, E began to understand the serious risks involved. This discussion underscored a growing awareness among young women in China about the realities of motherhood and the importance of informed choices regarding reproduction.

The conversation continued at Table Two, where E proposed surrogacy as an alternative to childbirth. C and D quickly told her the darker side of surrogacy in China, describing it as a black market involving exploitation and abuse. They explained how public figures associated with surrogacy often face severe repercussions, including censorship, due to the potential for profit-driven deceit and even abduction of women. E’s realization that many surrogates come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds brought to light the exploitation of vulnerable individuals by those wielding power and wealth.

Overall, these conversations revealed the complexities and cultural tensions surrounding modern relationships and reproductive choices among young women in China. The exchanges not only reflected personal experiences but also highlighted broader societal issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by women in navigating these significant life decisions.

[Last modified: October, 13 2024 11:57 PM]

Topic: Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Marriage and Childbearing: A Comparative Study of Western and Chinese Women’s Views

This research aims to explore the differing perspectives of women from Western and Chinese backgrounds concerning marriage and childbearing. It seeks to understand how cultural, social, and economic factors influence these views, and how they reflect broader societal norms related to gender roles, family structure, and individual aspirations.

Research Question:

1. How do media and culture shape the attitudes and beliefs of women in Western and Chinese societies regarding marriage and childbearing?

2. What implications do these differences have for gender roles and family dynamics?

3. What role does the rise of feminist consciousness play in shaping the concept of marriage and childbearing?

Methods:

1. Participant Observation:

Conduct participant observation in community settings, such as cultural events, women’s groups, and family gatherings, and on social media platforms, both in Western countries (e.g., the United States or the United Kingdom) and in China.
Observe interactions and discussions surrounding marriage and childbearing, noting how women express their beliefs, expectations, and experiences.

2. Semi-Structured Interviews:

Conduct interviews with women from diverse backgrounds in both Western and Chinese contexts to gain insights into their beliefs about marriage and childbearing.
Explore how factors such as education, career aspirations, familial expectations, and information on the Internet influence their perspectives.
Include questions about their personal experiences, societal pressures, and the role of social media in shaping their views on marriage and motherhood.
Case Studies:

Select case studies of specific individuals or groups that exemplify differing attitudes towards marriage and childbearing in both cultures.
Analyze their life choices, family dynamics, and the cultural narratives that inform their decisions, such as traditional family structures versus modern, egalitarian partnerships.
Compare how these case studies reflect broader societal trends in gender roles, individual autonomy, and family planning practices in their respective cultures.

Potential Findings:

1. The study may reveal significant differences in how women in Western and Chinese cultures perceive the timing and importance of marriage and motherhood, influenced by cultural norms and economic conditions.

2. Young women in China generally have a strong aversion to marriage and childbirth, while Western women may not be as extreme; this study may reveal the reasons behind this difference.

3. The role of news reports that create a negative impression of marriage and childbirth (such as domestic violence) and the awakening of feminist consciousness in shaping views on marriage and childbirth.

[Last modified: October, 1 2024 05:57 PM]

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