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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Jean M. Gumbs, ANP, MSN, RN, BS Nursing Department, City University of New York, Medgar Evers College, 1150 Carroll Street, Brooklyn, NY 11225, 718-270-6222/3, drewhill922003@yahoo.com

A review of the literature reveals that the current status of women in India remains pretty much the same from 200 B.C. to 200 A.D. based on the laws of manu. This law treated women as perpetual minors, requiring “protection” first by their fathers, next by their husbands and finally by their sons. This male-dominated society continues to negate the autonomy of women, regardless of their education status according to Sharma, Harish, Gupta & Singh (2005). Although the world has entered a new era of autonomy for women in some cultures, it is a harsh reality that women in India are still faced with suppression. Gosh (2005) stated that the suppression of women is rooted in the very fabric of Indian society. The roles of women are reinforced by tradition, religious doctrine, and practices with the educational systems and within families. The abuse of women, appears to transcend caste, class, or religion as evidenced by, female members of these groups who present as victims of cruelty. There is much needed change to alleviate the deep rooted cause of violence against women in India. Changes should include: psychological based interventions, and the use of the media. A more long term difficult change is to pass laws and to teach the next generation to respect women's rights, beginning with reproductive rights, and equality among sexes. This would be a crowning achievement in a society where men “control” the destiny of women.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to

• Describe the rights and laws for women in India
• Articulate the nurse's role as advocates for women in India.
• Discuss the psycho-social experience for women in India.

Keywords: Women's Health, Violence

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No