Women in Cambodia
Women in Cambodia, sometimes referred to as Khmer women, have been described as comparable to the Aspara or "celestial goddesses on the walls of the great temples of Angkor Wat" who have "pleasant smile[s]" and "distant gaze[s]". These Cambodian goddesses imbibe purity and virtuousness, thus an epitome for female Cambodians. The image of Cambodian women is also generally defined by the influence of the literary figure known as Srey Kroup Leakhnak, who was the "virtuous woman who upholds the family name" and honor. Srey Kroup Leakhnak is said to be the identity of true Khmer women.[1]
Based on tradition, Cambodian women are supposed to be modest, soft-spoken, a "light" walker, well-mannered,[1] industrious,[2] belong to the household, act as the family's caregiver and caretaker[1] and financial comptroller,[2] perform as the "preserver of the home", the maintainer of their virginity until marriage, become faithful wives[1], and advisors and servants to their male spouses.[2] The "light" walking and refinement of Cambodian women is further described as being "quiet in […] movements that one cannot hear the sound of their silk skirt rustling".[2] As financial controllers, the women of Cambodia can be identified as figures of the household who practically have real authority at the familial level.Cite error: A <ref> tag is missing the closing </ref> (see the help page).
Welfare
In rural communities, Cambodian women are generally susceptible to becoming victims of domestic violence with “ little legal recourse”. [3]
Social status
Contrary to traditional Cambodian culture, young Cambodian women have been influenced by Western ways. One trend is that some young female Cambodians, particularly in Phnom Penh, overtly consume liquors and alcoholic beverages in restaurants. Other influential factors to female consumers of alcohol include the sense of having equal rights between men and women, peer pressure, companionship, enjoyment, experimentation, family troubles, abandonment by a boyfriend, and advertisements.[4]
See also
References
- ^ a b c d Chey, Elizabeth. The Status of Khmer Women, Mekong.net
- ^ a b c d Cite error: The named reference
Statuswas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ Gender Roles and Statuses, everyculture.com
- ^ Women in Cambodia are increasingly becoming social drinkers, phnompenhpostApril 6, 2011