Abstract
The hypothesis of this thesis is that experiential learning forms part of a three stage ‘process of change’ which is motivated by the ‘formative tendency’ (Rogers 1975) and that women living within a patriarchal system tend to perpetuate its existence because of the ritual and symbolic social structures they are immersed in. The base assumption is that this tendency is an instinctual process within each individual that strives for survival in the first instance and the accomplishment of the individual’s needs and desires in the second. The case study took place in Cyprus between 1992-1994, using an eclectic methodology for gathering qualitative data with reference to how Cypriot women experience a unique patriarchal social phenomenon - the Cypriot honour code system. The techniques used included participant observation, structured and unstructured interviewing, secondary data gathering and a degree of personal process. The heuristic nature of the inquiry means my own actions/reactions form part of the data analysis. The main findings of the research are that in order for experience to form part of a learning process which influences change there first needs to be sufficient drive from an inner motivational force. Using their experiences of education and employment Cypriot women are challenging the honour code systems definition of the role of woman. As Cypriot women are striving for equality and freedom with and from the honour code system they are not yet equipped for the changes this has incurred sociologically. Many of the immediate changes are in direct conflict with ‘traditional’ Cypriot socialisation and hence forms a competitive evaluative process which perpetuates the patriarchal doctrine. From fear of loss of power, Cypriot men attempt to instill ‘traditional values’ by drawing heavily on the honour code system. The honour code system has continued to evolve to include women whilst maintaining its core hierarchical principles. This study grew from personal dissatisfaction with androcentric explanations for how I ‘ought’ to feel. The issues that arise from the research include working towards holistic integration of individual needs and implementation of interpersonal social strategies. My vision at the start was to provide an opportunity for women to choose change. My vision now is to encourage a holistic approach to change.