Democratization V.S. Patriarchy: A Study of Taiwanese Women's Cross-Cultural Romance

• Main Authors: CHENG, HSUEH-HUNG, 鄭學鴻
• Other Authors: LEE, PEI-WEN
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2018
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/yf6we5

碩士 === 世新大學 === 性別研究所 === 106 === This study aimed to explore how Taiwanese women’s thoughts changed after experiencing cross-cultural romance (CCR) and how the concept of democratization of intimacy was practiced in their relationships. Seven in-depth interviews were conducted with Taiwanese women who experienced CCR with non-Taiwanese men from highly democratized countries. The conclusions of this study are as follows: (1) Before experiencing CCR, the interviewees held critical attitudes toward cross-cultural relationships and had stereotypical perceptions of intimacy. Most interviewees had no desire for and some even felt repulsion toward CCR. However, interviewees were surprised and satisfied with the respectful attitude and communication of non-Taiwanese men after experiencing their relationships. (2) With regards to communication and negotiation in intimate relationships with non-Taiwanese men, Taiwanese women demonstrated a similar version of Giddens’ concept of “pure relationship.'' However, their use of a democratized communication strategy was inadequate in itself for fighting against patriarchal norms and social regulations. The interviewees thus used the differences in laws and gender norms in other nations to escape from patriarchal oppression. (3) Because of the concept of strong family ties in Chinese culture, Taiwanese parents engage in a type of “man-to-man patriarchy” toward their children. Parents ask their children to follow traditional customs and marriage systems, which are monitored by the senior members in a family to maintain patriarchal beliefs. (4) In reflection, the researcher realizes the importance of communication and self-expression in intimacy and the diverse ways humans treat others, which are seldom taught in Taiwan. To foster democratization of intimacy, this study suggests providing various discourses regarding intimacy in society, encouraging and guiding parents to discuss these ideas, deconstructing gender inequality in intimate relationships and moving toward gender-equal intimate relationships.