<p>This study explores how Ghanaian Generation Z (ages 13–28) conceives of “what is a woman,” examining evolving notions of femininity and gender norms. Utilizing focus group discussions and in-depth interviews within Ghana’s diverse cultural context, we conducted thematic and content analyses to uncover areas of both consensus and contention. Findings indicate that Gen Z participants broadly reject strictly traditional definitions of womanhood tied to domestic roles, instead emphasizing autonomy, identity, and equality. However, internal tensions emerge between progressive and conservative youth, particularly on issues such as gender roles in the home and the inclusion of transgender identities. Significant intergenerational gaps are also evident: while many young people challenge norms that cast women as subordinate homemakers, older generations often uphold these conventions. Ghana proves to be a compelling site for this inquiry—its rich ethnic diversity and ongoing socio-cultural shifts provide insight into how global gender discourses intersect with local traditions. Grounded in feminist theory, this study contributes to understanding how young people redefine womanhood in the twenty-first-century African context, highlighting both changes and continuities in gender norms across generations.</p>

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What Is a Woman in the Eyes of a Ghanaian Gen-Z? The Evolution of Femininity and Gender Norms Among Young Ghanaians

  • Stefan Danquah,
  • Godfred Bonnah Nkansah

摘要

This study explores how Ghanaian Generation Z (ages 13–28) conceives of “what is a woman,” examining evolving notions of femininity and gender norms. Utilizing focus group discussions and in-depth interviews within Ghana’s diverse cultural context, we conducted thematic and content analyses to uncover areas of both consensus and contention. Findings indicate that Gen Z participants broadly reject strictly traditional definitions of womanhood tied to domestic roles, instead emphasizing autonomy, identity, and equality. However, internal tensions emerge between progressive and conservative youth, particularly on issues such as gender roles in the home and the inclusion of transgender identities. Significant intergenerational gaps are also evident: while many young people challenge norms that cast women as subordinate homemakers, older generations often uphold these conventions. Ghana proves to be a compelling site for this inquiry—its rich ethnic diversity and ongoing socio-cultural shifts provide insight into how global gender discourses intersect with local traditions. Grounded in feminist theory, this study contributes to understanding how young people redefine womanhood in the twenty-first-century African context, highlighting both changes and continuities in gender norms across generations.