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Abstract

Due to current technology and the third wave feminist movement, gender inequality in other countries now has a global, socially aware platform. However, due to non-reporting, the voices of women experiencing violence and inequality in Japan are largely unheard. The purpose of this qualitative study is to investigate the gender role expectations in Japan that lead to inequality and victimization inflicted on Japanese women. Data was obtained through interviews with all available and consenting bilingual speakers at a Japanese University, and findings reveal that there are very specific expectations for Japanese women in the home, at work, and in society. For example, women were and are still expected to have children after getting married, to quit work after such a life event, and are treated differently under the law. This research adds to the existing literature by confirming previous findings while providing more in-depth and qualitative explanations of gender expectations and inequality.

Author Biography

Melanie Belarmino is a graduate of the University of Southern Indiana, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Gender Studies. Her research focuses on issues of feminism, race, and intersectionality. She is currently in the process of applying to graduate schools to become a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Dr. Melinda R. Roberts is Assistant Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Associate Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Southern Indiana. Her research focuses on violence against women, gender and race studies, offender reentry, and police-worn body cameras. She has published several articles and one book. She holds leadership positions on two community boards, WillowTree and the Southwest Indiana Regional Coalition Against Trafficking, that address human trafficking, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault.

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