The social representation of the Bedouin woman

The Bedouin population in Israel has unique cultural, ethnic, and social characteristics. Since the establishment of the State of Israel, this population has undergone continuous change: in the way of life, form of housing, and structure of the tribe and family. These changes have far-reaching ramifications for all members of the family and for their social representation. A qualitative study of 10 Bedouin families reveals the women's perception of the "good Bedouin woman." Over three generations since the founding of the state, the concept of the good woman has become complex and unclear. In the first generation, women made do with what they had and accepted the roles and chores imposed on them. Women of the third generation are struggling for their place in the public sphere; they want to break through, to hear and be heard. The second generation is trying to find its place between them, both in terms of its views and its manner of coping.