Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Arts and Humanities

Western Michigan University

Sociology Faculty Publications

Articles 1 - 2 of 2

Full-Text Articles in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Beyond The Belly: An Appraisal Of Middle Eastern Dance (Aka Belly Dance) As Leisure, Angela M. Moe Jan 2012

Beyond The Belly: An Appraisal Of Middle Eastern Dance (Aka Belly Dance) As Leisure, Angela M. Moe

Sociology Faculty Publications

Middle Eastern dance (aka belly dance) is an ancient and expressive form of movement, associated with feminine and community-based celebration and ritual. However, it is also thought of as erotic, seductive, and titillating. Despite stereotypes, belly dance appeals to contemporary women as leisure. This paper examines the intrigue with belly dance in the United States, specifically why women practice this dance form and what their involvement suggests about the gendered nature of leisure, and the need thereof, in women's lives. It also considers the possibility that belly dance may be a feminist form of leisure. Based on participant observation, journal …


Battered Women, Children And The End Of Abusive Relationships, Angela M. Moe Jan 2009

Battered Women, Children And The End Of Abusive Relationships, Angela M. Moe

Sociology Faculty Publications

Much work has focused on the interpersonal dynamics of violent relationships, but less is known about the specific turning points that prompt women at least to try to end them. Using a feminist standpoint method and phenomenological-based analysis of in-depth interviews with mothers in a domestic violence shelter, this article focuses on the role of children in women’s decisions to leave abusive partners. It discusses arriving at the decision, the logistics involved in leaving and planning for the future, and it presents policy and advocacy-based recommendations that are aimed at addressing the social welfare of women and children.