Faculty Publications

Expanding The Definition Of Provocative Dress: An Examination Of Female Flashing Behavior On A College Campus

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Agency, Flashing, Gender, Provocative dress

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Clothing and Textiles Research Journal

Volume

25

Issue

2

First Page

184

Last Page

201

Abstract

A Foucauldian feminist theoretical perspective was selected to examine female flashing behavior and male audience response within the microenvironment of a college homecoming celebration. Data were collected using ethnographic fieldwork techniques in the midst of sometimes near-riot conditions in a blocked-off street in the bar district adjoining the campus. Additional qualitative research methods included participant observation, interviews with male and female participants and observers, analysis of police videotapes, and interviews with police officers. Interpretive results supported the expanding of Kennedy's definition of provocative dress to include body-revealing behaviors when practiced within social contexts. Analysis further indicated that flashing within this microenvironment served to reinforce patterns of hegemonic male sexuality focused on sexual objectification of women rather than serving to challenge male-centered sexuality through an expression of female sexual agency. © 2007 International Textile & Apparel Association.

Department

Department of Design, Textiles, Gerontology, and Family Studies

Original Publication Date

4-1-2007

DOI of published version

10.1177/0887302X06298699

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