(Routledge Research in Gender and Society) 1st Edition
by Susan Pickard (Author)
Age, Gender and Sexuality through the Life Course argues
that the gendered structure of temporality (defined in the dual sense
of everyday time as well as age and stage of life) is a key factor
underpinning the stalling of the gender revolution. Taking as its
central focus the idealised young woman who serves as the mascot of
contemporary success, this book demonstrates how the celebration of the
Girl is (i) representative of social mobility, educational and
professional achievement; (ii) possesses diligence, docility and
emotional intelligence, and (iii) displays a reassuring sexuality and
youthfulness – but is constructed from the outset to have a fleetingly
short life span.
Pickard undertakes a theoretical and empirical
exploration of the contemporary female experience of education, work,
motherhood, sexuality, the challenge of having-it-all. Furthermore,
through additional analysis of the transitional ‘reproductive regime’
from youth into mid-life and beyond, this insightful monograph aims to
demonstrate how age and time set very clear limits to what is possible
and desirable for the female self; yet how the latter factors also, if
used reflexively, can provide the key means of resisting and challenging
patriarchy.
This book is aimed at a broad interdisciplinary
audience located in gender studies, age studies, culture studies,
sociology and psychology; accessible for advanced undergraduates and
beyond.
