Transnational Feminism and the Policing of Muslim Women’s Bodies: Implications for Therapy

Abstract

The various types of feminisms around the world have implications for the way oppression is defined and what can be done to resist it. This article explores common dilemmas within transnational feminism regarding the policing of women’s bodies, particularly as it affects Muslim women from the global South. This can be an especially important issue in therapy for global Southern women who reside in global Northern countries. This article addresses power dynamics between therapists and clients, given the inherent power differentials in their relationship, as well as the broader sociocultural and historical power differences amongst Southern and Northern women.