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Du Toit contributes to the study of the climacteric as an important phase of the life cycle among women of different cultures (the later reproductive and postreproductive years). Drawing upon perspectives in anthropology, sociology, psychology, and gerontology, he demonstrates the need for an adequate cross-cultural theory of aging among women, and offers a solid body of research from South Africa in establishing a standard methodology for the study of the climacteric.
"Dr. du Toit's study of the aging process and climacteric experience is set in the context of the cultural experience and life meanings of Indian South African women. His book touches upon issues related not only to the history, social organization and family life of this region, but identifies and develops the concept of being a woman throughout the lifespan. I particularly liked the sections on women's health practice, family health behavior and sexuality that sets the stage for his detailed analysis of the menopausal experience." — Setha M. Low, The City University of New York
"This is a work which will help to fill a lacuna on climacteric from a cultural perspective. The data are useful, the comparisons enlightening. It is highly comprehensive and balances psychological and sociocultural data very well."— David N. Suggs, Kenyon College
"Cross-cultural studies of menopause provide a great deal of insights to the dynamics of women's status, the relationships between gender, health and illness as well as the importance of the body as metaphor and cultural symbol. The section on sexuality is ethnographically stimulating." — Dona Davis, University of South Dakota
"I could not believe how similar the myths, stereotypes and actual experiences were to American women in menopause. It is the similarity, not the differences that surprised me." — Linda Crockett McKeever, California State University, Fullerton
Preface
1. The Cultural Climacteric
Introduction
Survey of Climacteric Studies
2. The South African Scene
The History of Indian South Africans
The Position of Indian South Africans
Studying Indian South African Women
3. Population Description
Introduction
Population Profile
Social Organization
4. Being a Woman
Introduction
Role Conception and Performance
Image: The Modern Indian South African Woman
Being a Woman
5. Lifestyles and Life Course
Introduction
Self-Concept
Life Events
Role Satisfaction
Coping Behavior
Life Cycle Perceptions
6. Perspectives on Health
Introduction
Profile of Health
Family History
Reproductive Health
Post Reproductive Health
Sexuality
Menstruation
7. The Menopause
Introduction
Information Concerning Menopause
Expectations Concerning Menopause
Experiencing the Menopause
Cognition
Behavioral
8. Conclusion
Appendix
References
Indexes