Wang, Siqi (2025) BECOMING HERSELF ON THE ROAD: CHINESE WOMEN’S SELF-AWARENESS THROUGH SOLO TRAVEL. Master thesis, Cultural Geography - Sustainable Tourism and Society (STS).
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Abstract
This study examines how solo travel facilitates the development of self-awareness among Chinese women. Applying constructivist grounded theory, it analyzes in-depth interviews with 16 participants and proposes a four-stage process model: Disembedding →Self-awareness → Self-construction → Integration. The findings show that self-awareness does not emerge spontaneously, but unfolds through a gradual process that begins with emotional tension and disconnection from prescribed roles. As women navigate unfamiliar environments, they engage in solitude, boundary testing, and relational reflection, leading to a clearer sense of self and agency. These internal shifts continue after travel, influencing personal choices and subtly challenging cultural and gender norms. The study highlights how solo travel can function as a situated and reflexive cultural practice. The study recommends enhanced institutional and social support for women’s autonomous travel—such as safer environments, public recognition, and culturally sensitive discourse—especially in contexts where gender norms remain deeply embedded.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master) |
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| Name supervisor: | Muldoon, M.L. |
| Date Deposited: | 08 Jul 2025 10:43 |
| Last Modified: | 08 Jul 2025 10:43 |
| URI: | https://campus-fryslan.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/690 |
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