Abstract
The role of social context in determining parenting practices in is understudied. Within a vacuum of research in protective parenting practices, this study explores how chaperonage became a common protective measure of current generation parents in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This study purposively sampled 11 mothers (G1) and 11 maternal grandmothers (G2) from Dhaka and followed a cross-sectional hermeneutic phenomenological research design. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were used to collect data. Besides learning from the earlier generations, the participants shaped protective parenting practices based on current social contexts within a guidance of the earlier generation. The findings suggest that chaperonage was anchored by G2 mothers as a prominent protective parenting strategy whereas G1 mothers practiced it to a limited extent. Increased road traffic accidents, sexual harassment, abductions, drug abuse, and increased strangers in the neighborhoods contextualized the practice of chaperonage. The findings on chaperonage as a protective parenting practice are powerful with its appeals in three levels: individual, community and societal. The practice of chaperonage echoes mothers’ struggles as well as sacrifices to meet its constant demand of availability. Pilot studies are required to find culturally and contextually suitable alternatives to chaperonage in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
The Physiology, Kinesiology and Psychology of Wellness in its Social Context
KEYWORDS
Chaperonage, Bangladesh, Protective parenting, Gendered-practice, Social insecurity
