Social and Psychological Aspects

The Hijab and Muslim women's Well-being in a Western Society

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Abstract

In Western societies, Muslim women are surrounded by social contexts that are different from those of their home countries which is impacted their well-being. This research aims to explore the effect of wearing the hijab on Muslim women's well-being while living in a Western society. It uses self-determination theory (SDT) and clothing comfort model (CCM) to specify the psychological, physiological and physical needs. Employing qualitative data collection, the researchers used the conventional and directed content analysis approaches. In-depth interviews and follow up conversations with 15 of the 22 participants were conducted. The results showed that the participants have high level of satisfaction for all the three basic needs, which means high level of well-being. The main physiological need for the participants is thermal comfort and they pay special attentions to the hijab material properties, such as drapabe, lightweight and soft hand, because of the impact on their physical needs.

How to Cite:

Maqsood, E. N. & Chen, H., (2017) “The Hijab and Muslim women's Well-being in a Western Society”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 74(1).