Female Genital Mutilation

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer explains that female genital mutilation (FGM), still common in parts of Africa, is condemned by most people as a serious violation of human rights and gender discrimination. The writer notes that some communities consider it a harmless cultural rite whose dangers are needlessly exaggerated by outsiders. This essay discusses the topic of FGM in detail by tracing its background and explaining different types of FGM. The writer looks at where and why it is currently practiced and discusses its physical and psychological effects. The writer also examines the alternate point of view that dismisses concerns about FGM as exaggerated and cultural arrogance.

Outline:
Background
Origin
FGM during Prophet Muhammad's lifetime
FGM in the West
Current Prevalence
Numbers
Countries where FGM is practiced
Types of FGM
Type I
Type II
Type III
Type IV
Physical Effects of FGM
Pain, infection
Genealogical Problems
Reduced sexual enjoyment
Psychological Effects of FGM
Negative effects
Positive effects
Why is FGM Performed?
Tradition & Gender Identity
Psychosexual Reason
Hygiene and Aesthetics
Religious Reasons
The Alternative View about FGM
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The psychological effects of FGM are much more difficult to investigate scientifically than its physical effects. The negative psychological effects could include feelings of trauma, anxiety, terror, humiliation, and betrayal that may lead to long-term behavioral characteristics such as docility, feelings of incompleteness, anxiety and depression. However, not all psychological effects of FGM are negative, particularly in places where the practice is part of the ancient culture of the people. In fact, in such societies, women who have not undergone the essential 'rite of initiation' may suffer from psychological problems due to fear of rejection by the society and feelings of inferiority. Those women who have undergone FGM experience feelings of empowerment and fulfillment."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "Debates about FGM." (2006). Religious tolerance.org. Retrieved on February 23, 2006 from http://www.religioustolerance.org/fem_cirm.htm
• "Female Genital Cutting." (2006). From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved on February 23, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Female_circumcision
• Foster, C. (1994, May). "On the Trail of a Taboo: Female Circumcision in the Islamic World." Contemporary Review, 264, 244+.
• Pieters, G. and Lowenfels, A.B. (1977, April). "Infibulation in the Horn of Africa." New York State Journal of Medicine, 77 (6): 729-31. Retrieved on February 23, 2006 from http://www.cirp.org/pages/female/pieters1/
• Shweder, R. A. (2000). "What about "Female Genital Mutilation"? and Why Understanding Culture Matters in the First Place." Daedalus, 129(4), 209.

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