Social Change and Singlehood in Southeast Asia: A Comparison of Tertiary Educated Women in Singapore and Metropolitan Bangkok

Abstract

Based on intensive interviews conducted in 1987/88 with 40 tertiary educated women in Singapore & in metropolitan Bangkok, Thailand, it is argued that the growing phenomenon of singlehood is closely related to the rapid social change in Southeast Asia. Changes in SE structures in this region have increased women's opportunities for higher education & employment, but changes have been slower in the sphere of traditional cultural values & norms, especially relating to marriage. With their new opportunities for individualism, women are reluctant to get married in accordance with the terms set by a traditional society. Discussion focuses on the issue of singlehood in the disjuncture of SE & cultural changes.