University of New Hampshire
McNair Scholar, 2018
Major: Sociology
Mentor: Dr. Semra Aytur, Department of Health Management and Policy
Research Title: The Effect Of Varying Social Identities On The Experience Of Menstruation
Abstract:
The experience of menstruation is one which affects most women routinely throughout their life. There is limited research available, however, on the overall experience of menstruation and how this relates to its social perception and construction. Much less of such research exists for women of non-Western, non-White backgrounds. This research aims to use surveys, interviews, and focus groups to collect data regarding this topic and further illuminate the varied experiences of menstruation. The goal of this research is to address how social perceptions and constructions of the menstruation process may or may not be affected by the intersection of one’s race, ethnicity, religion, and immigrant status, as well as other social factors like socioeconomic/educational status. We will also use data from a national survey, the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Reactions to Race module, to make comparisons with our survey sample regarding perceptions of racial identity, discrimination, and psychological distress.
