Women’s Agency and Mobile Communication Under the Radar

This volume explores the role of mobile communication in the daily lives of women around the world, highlighting its impact on social, cultural, and political processes. It focuses on the "under-the-radar" use of mobile communication by women in marginalized societies, showcasing how it empowers them and contributes to their self-empowerment. The chapters cover various aspects of women's lives, including economic activities, health care, well-being, migration, gender identity, and gender roles. The book is interdisciplinary and will be of interest to scholars and students in media and communication, gender studies, sociology, anthropology, political science, and cultural studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive and interdisciplinary volume explores the profound impact of mobile communication on the daily lives of women across the globe, shedding light on the often overlooked and nuanced ways in which mobile technology is used to shape social outcomes and influence gender construction processes. Drawing on a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, the authors examine the diverse ways in which women utilize mobile communication to navigate complex social, cultural, historical, and political contexts.

The chapters in this volume delve into a wide range of topics, including women's economic activities, access to healthcare, well-being, migration patterns, gender identity, and the practices associated with different gender roles. By highlighting the "under-the-radar" use of mobile communication, the authors demonstrate how these technologies are deeply embedded within diverse social, cultural, historical, and political milieus.

The authors argue that mobile communication plays a crucial role in empowering women by facilitating their access to information, resources, and opportunities. Through the use of mobile phones, women can engage in economic activities, improve their health outcomes, participate in social movements, and challenge traditional gender norms. Moreover, mobile communication provides a platform for women to express their voices, share their experiences, and build networks of support, thereby challenging the marginalization and oppression they face in various contexts.

However, the authors also acknowledge the challenges and complexities associated with mobile communication for women. They highlight the ways in which gender-based violence, surveillance, and privacy concerns can exacerbate the risks and vulnerabilities faced by women who use mobile technology. Additionally, the authors note that mobile communication can perpetuate gender stereotypes and reinforce existing power imbalances, particularly in societies where women are marginalized or oppressed.

To address these challenges, the authors propose a range of strategies and interventions that can promote the empowerment of women through mobile communication. These include initiatives to enhance women's access to mobile technology, promote digital literacy and skills training, develop gender-sensitive policies and regulations, and raise awareness about the rights and responsibilities of women in the digital age.

In conclusion, this volume provides a valuable contribution to the growing body of research on mobile communication and gender. By highlighting the diverse ways in which women utilize mobile communication and the social, cultural, and political factors that shape their experiences, the authors offer a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between mobile technology and gender. The volume is of interest to scholars and students of media and communication, new and digital media, mobile communication, gender studies, sociology, anthropology, political science, and cultural studies.

Weight: 670g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032285085