Victoria Craddock, a third-year University of Liverpool Sociology student, has had her essay, 'Ovary-Acting: The Stigma and Shame Around Menstrual Health', published by the British Sociological Association's (BSA) Everyday Society platform. This online forum, part of the UK's largest sociological network, fosters collaboration and discussion within the sociological community.
Written for the Department of Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology module Emotions and Society: Love, Hate and Anger, Victoria's essay explores the sociology of emotions. It offers a nuanced exploration of how emotions like shame and stigma are socially constructed, regulated and experienced. She also highlights the real-world impact of menstrual stigma, from its effects on women’s health to the barriers it creates in both public and private life.
This publication is a testament to the exceptional critical thinking and research skills developed by our undergraduate students.
Reflecting on her achievement, Victoria said: “I feel very proud to have had my work published, especially because the topic is so meaningful to me, and I would like to thank Dr Elham Amini for her continued support throughout the module.
“Having endured years of medical misogyny, gaslighting, and the daily shame surrounding my pain, this work is a reflection of my journey - one that has profoundly impacted my employment , social life and university studies. I hope that by sharing this article and my story, I can shed light on the stigma surrounding menstrual health and provide strength to those navigating similar struggles.”
Victoria’s essay is available to read on the BSA Everyday Society website.