Understanding Male Domination in Traffic with a Bourdiean Analysis in the Experience of Disabled Female Drivers

In this article, masculine domination relations in traffic as a public space are discussed in the context of experiences of disabled females. A classification of masculine domination relations of the disabled females in traffic in Isparta, where the percentages of both the disabled population and people owning a car are above the averages of Turkey, is assessed by using Bourdieu’s analysis. Interviews were made with ten disabled women in the central district of Isparta by utilizing qualitative research method. The meaning of being a disabled individual and female is discussed in the context of their education, working life, marital status, and social class within the framework of owning a car and being in traffic. The context of being a disabled female has been examined in terms of the patriarchal codes in their family relations and social capital in the light of their education and life experiences. Besides, the characteristics of social support for disabled individuals are presented based on vehicle ownership by women, their traffic experiences and liberation practices. The role of social and financial capital possession by women in overcoming spatial and social barriers has been evaluated.