A Forced 'Rishta' - An issue facing Pakistani Muslims in UK and Pakistan
INFORMATION SHEET
I am a final year student studying BSc Sociology at Loughborough University (UK). As part of my final year dissertation project, I have decided to conduct a research on the social, cultural, religious and family life issues faced by Pakistanis today in UK and Pakistan, which may contribute towards a forced marriage.
I am not here to intrude in to any individual's life story. I am here to read all comments, opinions and views that you may have to contribute to this questionnaire.
My aim is to put forward YOUR 'VOICE' ('tumhari awaaz') in the form of my dissertation report. Therefore, I request any Pakistanis in UK and Pakistan to take part in this.
All information will be kept confidential, and any data collected will be kept on file for 1 year before being destroyed. This is because; I am hoping to go back to this issue later on and see exactly what has changed and what has not.
Any participants that are quoted in my dissertation report will be referred to by a letter. For instance, "Participant A says that [...]". This is to maintain both the confidentiality and your anonymity.
Please keep in mind that although there are 21 questions, not all will apply to you as some will be for those whom are married, and some for those whom are single. However, this is clearly stated on question 5 (marital status) and on pages 2 and 3 (just click 'Next Page' at the bottom once to go to the 'Married' page, and click 'Next Page' on the bottom of the 'Married' page to go on to the 'Singles' page. You will find the 'FINISH SURVEY' button at the bottom of the 'Singles' page.)
Finally, in order to keep within the ethical guidelines, you have the right to withdraw or not answer certain questions whenever you feel it is appropriate, without having to give me any explanation for your withdrawal.
If you have any questions or comments about this research study, the questionnaire, or anything else concerned with this issue, then please do not hesitate to contact me by email at: farzana20@hotmail.co.uk - I will try my best to get back to you as soon as possible.
P.S. To those who do complete this questionnaire: Please DO NOT FORGET to CLICK 'FINISH SURVEY' when you complete the questionnaire. You would be amazed at how many people actually forget to do that, then become frustrated after inputting all their thoughts and ideas! :-)
Also, REMEMBER TO GIVE YOUR CONSENT BELOW BEFORE CONTINUING. Thank you.
This dissertation aims to explore and highlight the social, cultural, religious and family life issues faced by Pakistanis in UK and Pakistan which may contribute towards a forced marriage.
1.
INFORMED CONSENT FORM (to be completed after reading the above information sheet)
The purpose and details of this study have been explained to
me. I understand that this study is
designed to further scientific knowledge and that all procedures have been
approved by the Loughborough University Ethical Advisory Committee.
I have read and understood the information sheet and this
consent form.
I have had an opportunity to ask questions about my
participation.
I understand that I am under no obligation to take part in
the study.
I understand that I have the right to withdraw from this
study at any stage for any reason, and that I will not be required to explain
my reasons for withdrawing.
I understand that all the information I provide will be
treated in strict confidence.
4. LOCATION: Please specify the region you live in.
5.
MARITAL STATUS:
If MARRIED - also answer QUESTIONS on PAGE 2
If SINGLE - also answer QUESTIONS on PAGE 3
6. What is your highest level of education? (Please be specific with the type of qualification(s) and/or subject(s) studied):
7.
In your opinion what is a 'forced marriage'?
8. Briefly explain your attitude towards forced marriages.
9.
In your opinion can a forced marriage be defended? Explain why.
10.
I am intrigued to learn how different cultures distinguish between men and women.
How do you think a WOMAN and a MAN is percieved as in your culture?
11. Below are two quotations from existing literature which express views about forced marriage. I am interested in knowing if you agree or disagree with these, along with WHY you agree or disagree.
"Some Muslim writers from the Indian subcontinent claim that there is no heirarchy of castes [...], and that caste is unimportant in determining marriage partners." (Shaw, A. (1988) A Pakistani Community in Britain, pg. 85)
12. "Majority of Muslims do not allow their wives and daughters to work or have contact with the outside world. Apart from veiling in the traditional sense, back home Purdah also refers to restrictions on the physical movement of Pakistani women. This means that except from close relatives women keep other men at a distance." (Anwar, M. (1979) The Myth of Return, pg. 165)