Women, health and social change in a rural Newfoundland community

Abstract

This thesis examines the social and cultural context of women, health and social change in one rural Newfoundland community. A holistic approach is taken to assist in the understanding of the social and cultural context, both past and present, of the community. -- Since the fishery Moratorium in 1992 the physical and human environment of rural Newfoundland communities have been irrevocably altered. Specifically, the social and economic dynamics of women living in rural coastal communities has changed. I suggest that the traditional role of women held as the measure of what constitutes a good wife and mother within this community is in direct contradiction to the social reality facing women today.