A study on the self development in middle-aged Japanese women through analyses of their narrated life histories

Abstract

Seven Japanese women of ages between forty-five and fifty-five were interviewed individually in order to examine the process of the inner development of middle-aged Japanese women. Their life-histories were analyzed in detail. Main findings were as follows: (1) The women had recognized inner change and growth through various experiences primarily in domestic spheres, and secondarily through jobs, hobbies, studies and community activities. (2) The women who were relieved from child-rearing responsibilities decided to live the latter half of their lives free of restrictions laid by their families and society, trying to fulfill their personal goals for their own lives. (3) Their development was attained through committing themselves to their children and associating with female friends and personal acquaintances. In contrast to these intimate relationships, these women were psychologically distant from their husbands without being aware of it. (4) Their life processes and inner development were produced through interacting with the social and cultural contexts peculiar to their own generation.