essay

Sex role symmetry among the Rungus of Sabah

female and male in borneo : contributions and challenges to gender studies1 • Published In 1991 • Pages: 1-56

By: Appell, Laura W. R..

Abstract
This is a study of gender relations among the Rungus Dusun. Laura Appell makes the case for sexual symmetry. According to Appell, Rungus male and female roles are balanced in the household economy. High bride price underscores the value of a bride's skills and potential contribution to the household. Spirit mediums who play an important role in Rungus healthcare are exclusively women. Uxorilocal residence, mutual respect between spouses, and the absence of sexual violence (see Appell 1991, document no. 6) are also indications of relative equality between the sexes. The general restraint on sexual behavior may be a contributing factor in sexual equality. The document includes 22 photographs.
Subjects
Division of labor by gender
Gender status
Marriage
Family relationships
Socialization
Gender roles and issues
culture
Rungus Dusun
HRAF PubDate
2002
Region
Asia
Sub Region
Southeast Asia
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard ; 2000
Field Date
1959-1963, 1986
Coverage Date
1959-1986
Coverage Place
Kudat District, Sabah, Malaysia
Notes
Laura W. R. Appell
Includes bibliographical references (p. 33-34)
LCCN
91072229
LCSH
Dusun (Bornean people)