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Flower drinking and masculinity in Taiwan.
Olwen Bedford1, Shu-Ling Hwang
1Division of Psychology, Nanyang Technological University. olwen.bedford@gmail.com
Journal of Sex Research
|September 19, 2009
Summary
Hostess clubs in Taiwan shape masculinity through "flower drinking," a practice involving alcohol consumption and social etiquette. This male bonding ritual influences professional development and social status among men.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Cultural Studies
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Hostess club culture is prevalent in Taiwan.
- Flower drinking, a practice involving alcohol consumption in bars, is common in Taiwan and often linked with prostitution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of hostess club culture in the creation and maintenance of masculinity in Taiwan.
- To examine how flower drinking practices contribute to male bonding and professional development.
Main Methods:
- Data collected through 58 in-depth interviews with men of diverse backgrounds (mean age = 38.50).
- 73 questionnaires administered to soldiers (mean age = 21.00).
Main Results:
- Proficiency in flower drinking and its social etiquette are key for male bonding and professional advancement, particularly for mid- to upper-class men.
- Flower drinking serves as a mechanism for men to differentiate themselves based on their choices and behaviors.
- Taiwanese masculinity exhibits unique characteristics compared to Western and Japanese forms, aligning with traditional Confucian ideals.
Conclusions:
- Hostess club culture and flower drinking significantly influence the construction and performance of masculinity in Taiwan.
- These practices reinforce social hierarchies and contribute to the ongoing relevance of traditional Confucian masculinity.
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