Women and the dynamics of family life in contemporary Gozo

Abstract

All families are unique and this uniqueness is reflected in their pattern of interaction. In relation to this, this research looked at family as a process. Thus, particular attention was given to the fluidity of family and on how these family relationships are constantly evolving. However, it did not exclude the effects that culture can have on family agency. This research examined family from an intergenerational and gender perspective. Given that this research was interested particularly on the lived experiences of women’s family life, the participants were only women. This research was carried out with Gozitan women. This choice was made not to make any claims on small island societies or to generalise the findings obtained. The individual point of view was not the sole interest and thus group interviews were the main method of data collection. Each of the group interviews was carried out with two or three interviewees who formed part of the same family. The investigation of the intergenerational element was possible through this method of data collection. In fact, group interviews made the analysis of discourse and family dynamics possible. This study asserted that family is something that is actively done rather than just being something that a person is simply part of. It also established the way ideals and myths influence perceptions and expectations of how one should be living within their own family. The findings identified the function of routines and rituals within family life. It analysed the social construction of women’s roles and family life through the domestic space. The role of family as an informal support system was identified. In fact, data suggested that obligation and reciprocity had a prominent role in the families caring practices.