Role and Identity in Flux: Processes of Transformation and Negotiation
摘要
Intersectional analysis emphasizes how various dimensions of identity—such as gender, social stratification, religion, and socioeconomic status—intersect and shape individual and collective experiences. The intersectionality of gender, stratification, and religion creates a dual burden for Nat women. Being both female and members of a marginalized community, they face heightened forms of discrimination and exclusion. Their identities are shaped not only by their gender and social stratification but also by the societal expectations and restrictions imposed on them. For instance, the stereotype of Nat women as thieves stems from their historical criminalization and continues to influence how they are perceived and treated within society. This stigmatized identity restricts their access to social and economic opportunities, perpetuating their marginalization. Despite these challenges, Nat women navigate their intersecting identities with resilience and agency. They engage in identity negotiation, a process influenced by religious norms, economic sustenance, gender roles, and cultural practices. This negotiation involves balancing societal expectations with their own aspirations and needs. For example, by concealing or altering their identity in certain contexts, Nat women attempt to shield themselves from discrimination and social conflict. While this strategy helps them navigate oppressive structures, it also creates a sense of suspicion and mistrust among outsiders, further complicating their social integration.