Son Preference in North-Western India
This paper applies the notion of gender performativity, as developed by Judith Butler, to the reproductive practices of women from the Northwestern part of India in relation to the concept of son preference and the construction of gender identity. Women who were interviewed in the context of this study implied that giving birth to a son is necessary in order to be a « complete woman ». It allows women to achieve femininity and perform their gender as it is conceived in their own social context. The construction of gender identity starts in childhood by performing and repeating ritualized acts over time that lead women to perceive their desire for a son as their own will. This process is carried out through interactional negotiations with family members.