Date of Conferral

2019

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Peter B. Anderson

Abstract

Female genital cutting (FGC) is the partial, or total excision of the female outer genitalia, or different forms of lacerations to the female genital organs for nonmedical reasons such as social, cultural, religious, or other nonmedical intentions. Many girls and women around the globe who have gone through FGC or are at the risk of being forced into it. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the place of culture, religion, social beliefs, and men's views, attitudes, and knowledge regarding the FGC within the Nigerian immigrant community in the northwest US. The social convention theory served as the framework for the study. Data were gathered from 22 adults, 18 years old and above, who have lived in the Portland, OR area for at least 2 years. Fourteen open-ended questions with subheading were used to carry out a face-to-face interview. The data were analyzed manually. The participants (parents with daughter[s]) in this study supported the possible eradication of FGC in all manner; using sound education and legislation. Even though FGC is filled with so much pain and in some cases, lifetime scares, people still carry it out because it is a traditional rite which has been passed down from generation to generation. Possible implications for positive social change include education of young parents and everyone else regarding the dangers that are associated with FGC, especially in the rural areas where FGC is believed to still thrive. If men were to speak up and stress their dissatisfaction with FGC and show sympathy to those who may have gone through FGC, they may shield their daughters from the practices. The eradication of FGC would enhance the lives of young women and girls and reduce the morbidity and mortality connected to this practice.

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