Padnos International Center  


Barbara H. Padnos International Center
130 Lake Ontario Hall
Allendale, MI 49401
Phone: 616-331-3898
Fax: 616-331-3899
studyabroad@gvsu.edu


Gender Issues

Depending on your destination, you may find gender roles to be very different than what you are accustomed to in the United States. Women may not have the same status or role in the host country. Students may experience anxiety, frustration, and even anger after experiencing these differences first hand. 

You may find pre-existing stereotypes of American women, or assumptions about American sexuality and gender roles.  These stereotypes are drawn from many sources including movies, television, and the internet. If you are in a situation where you are confronted with issues that make you uncomfortable, it is important to talk with your on-site contact about various coping mechanisms to handle the concern and to ensure your personal safety. In many cases, students walk away with a greater understanding of the cultural influences and the obstacles facing their peers.  You may also develop a more sophisticated appreciation of cultural differences and gender equality.

The following website is a great resource for women traveling abroad: www.journeywomen.com


  Last Modified Date: April 2, 2009
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