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Daughters Of Parvati: Women And Madness In Contemporary India (Contemporary Ethnography)

Howard Blair

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Unveiling the Interplay of Gender and Mental Health in Modern India

Mental health has emerged as a critical concern in contemporary societies, and the intersection of gender and madness remains a complex and multifaceted issue. In India, a country grappling with rapid social and economic changes, the experiences of women with mental illness bear unique challenges and complexities. Women and Madness in Contemporary India: Contemporary Ethnography delves into this intricate landscape, offering a comprehensive analysis of how gender and mental health intertwine in modern India.

Exploring the Gendered Narratives of MadnessThrough extensive ethnographic research, the book explores the ways in which women's experiences of mental illness are shaped by prevailing social and cultural norms. It examines how gender biases manifest in the diagnosis, treatment, and social responses to mental health issues among women. The author sheds light on the often-overlooked gendered assumptions and stereotypes that perpetuate stigma and discrimination against those who deviate from societal expectations of femininity.

Daughters of Parvati: Women and Madness in Contemporary India (Contemporary Ethnography)

by Sarah Pinto

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2382 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	290 pages

Navigating the Healthcare SystemThe book analyzes the challenges faced by women in accessing appropriate mental healthcare. It highlights the systemic barriers, prejudices, and lack of sensitivity often encountered in the healthcare system, which can exacerbate the suffering of women with mental illnesses. The author provides a nuanced understanding of the ways in which gender influences the provision of mental healthcare, shedding light on the need for gender-sensitive approaches and culturally competent care.

Family, Kinship, and MadnessThe book also examines the role of family and kinship networks in shaping the experiences of women with mental illness. It explores how family dynamics, cultural beliefs, and social support can both provide and hinder recovery. The author delves into the complexities of family relationships and the ways in which gendered expectations may influence the care and treatment of mentally ill women.

Case Studies: Lived Experiences of MadnessTo illustrate the multifaceted nature of women's experiences with madness, the book presents detailed case studies. These accounts provide a firsthand look into the challenges, resilience, and coping mechanisms of women living with mental health issues. Through these narratives, the author exposes the human dimension of madness and challenges simplistic understandings of mental illness.

Mental Health and Social TransformationRecognizing the urgent need for change, the book concludes with a call for social transformation. It emphasizes the importance of addressing gender inequalities and promoting mental health awareness as a fundamental step towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate society. The author outlines strategies and recommendations for improving mental healthcare services, reducing stigma, and empowering women to live fulfilling lives despite the challenges of mental illness.

Women and Madness in Contemporary India: Contemporary Ethnography is an invaluable contribution to the understanding of the complex interplay between gender and mental health in modern India. Through rigorous research and insightful analysis, the book provides a comprehensive examination of the challenges and opportunities faced by women with mental illnesses. It challenges prevailing stereotypes, highlights systemic barriers, and advocates for gender-sensitive approaches to mental healthcare and social transformation. By shedding light on this critical issue, the book not only contributes to the field of mental health but also enriches our understanding of the lived experiences of women in contemporary Indian society.

Daughters of Parvati: Women and Madness in Contemporary India (Contemporary Ethnography)

by Sarah Pinto

5 out of 5