Author: Matsumoto, Ryo

Annotation: The aim of this study is to elucidate the processes occurring in modern Uzbekistani society—such as shifts in values and the reproduction of gender norms—by analyzing how women show initiative in the context of the life event of marriage and, in turn, how the ideal image of women is changing. This analysis employs the Trajectory Equifinality Approach (TEA). To this end, interviews were conducted with one married woman and one divorced woman. The Trajectory Equifinality Model (TEM) was utilized to visualize the progression of actions and events, while the Three Layers Model of Genesis (TLMG) was applied to illustrate the transformation of values. The results reveal that contemporary women strive to assert their own initiative, although they remain influenced by social norms and familial expectations. Moreover, the study highlights that women shape their ideal views of work and autonomy through key life stages, such as marriage and divorce. These results suggest that, for contemporary Uzbekistani women, the pursuit of personal interests and the establishment of a career have become newly recognized and socially valued norms.

Keywords: gender, women’s initiative, patriarchy, social change, the Trajectory Equifinality Approach.

Pages in journal: 202 - 211