Contextual Sexuality and relationship choices of Mosou women of South-West China: Focusing on their own perspectives

Author : R. Aloni, R. Linton

Abstract :Objective: This research project explores in detail the sexual practices of women living in a matrilineal society and their perceptions of their sexuality, using this as a baseline for understanding women’s sexuality in a western culture overshadowed by a phallocentric orientation. Design and Method: This research was conducted in a village in the south-west of China, interviewing Mosou women individually and in groups using feminist research methods in which participants take part in designing the research project. Results: The existing body of knowledge suggests that women in matrilineal societies would present sexual behaviour free of the restrictions and double standards of patriarchal societies. Drawing from accounts and descriptions of their life in general, this study presents a different picture and understanding of the sexuality of Mosou women. Conclusions: The unique contribution of this research study lies in its identification of sexuality as strongly affected by family needs connected to their life context; women in matrilineal societies are not fully protected from aggressive male sexual behaviour, nor from double standards regarding their sexuality. Researchers of women’s sexuality must acknowledge this baseline, and how it has evolved into the different manifestations of the present day.

Keywords :Sexuality, relationship, matrilineal society, prejudice, feminism.

Conference Name :International Conference on Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology Society (ICSACS-25)

Conference Place Kumasi, Ghana

Conference Date 17th Dec 2025