การสูญเสียและความรัก LOSS AND LOVE: ETHNOGRAPHIC ACCOUNTS OF DIVORCED WOMEN IN YING-RAK-YING RELATIONSHIPS IN THAILAND

Abstract

This ethnographic research explores culturally normative attitudes towards gender and sexuality that Thai individuals attach onto romantic relationships. What constitutes a ‘legitimate’ and ‘proper’ romantic relationship in Thailand? In this research, I look into the phenomenon of divorced women in contemporary Thailand, engaging in ying-rak-ying (“women-who-like-women”) relationships following their divorce, as an entry point into Thai discourse on gender and sexuality. My research delves into their personal narratives and explores how they negotiate, navigate and understand their gender, sexuality and intertwined identities transiting from a ‘heterosexual’ to a ying-rak-ying relationship. I look into how they materialise their selfhood through a divorcee, a partner and sometimes, a mother. Such narratives enhance complexities in how individuals have come to understand themselves and how the process of gender and sexuality-making caters to their idea of who they are. Tapping into these narratives, this thesis reflects on the underlying social and cultural pressures, norms and expectations at play that are actively shaping and hindering their gendered identities.