Dr Janet Howard
MA, PhD
Expertise
Current positions
Research Associate
Department of Anthropology and Archaeology
Contact
Media contact
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Research interests
I am an evolutionary anthropologist with an interest in applied research. My research interests are in so-called harmful cultural practices, and why these practices are highly prevalent in many populations depsite the harm that they cause, often to the perpetrators' close family members. For my PhD research I focussed on two specific practices which are often grouped together as types of gender-based violence; female genital mutliation/cutting (FGM/C) and intimate partner violence (IPV).
I am currently working on a British Academy funded project which aims to understand the social norms which underpin FGM/C in Ethiopia. The results will provide new insights into how the practice is socially maintained and inform eradication efforts within Ethiopia. The other team members conducting this research are Dr. Estetu Gurmu (University of Addis Ababa), Dr. Alex Alvergne (University of Montpelier), and Professor Mhairi Gibson (University of Bristol).
Positions
University of Bristol positions
Research Associate
Department of Anthropology and Archaeology
Publications
Recent publications
21/01/2021Prevalence of FGC/M in the UK: What can official data tell us?
Prevalence of FGC/M in the UK: What can official data tell us?
Is there a link between paternity concern and female genital cutting in West Africa?
Evolution and Human Behavior
Frequency-dependent female genital cutting behaviour confers evolutionary fitness benefits
Nature Ecology and Evolution
Thesis
EXPLORING THE PERSISTENCE OF FEMALE GENITAL CUTTING AND INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Supervisors
Award date
25/06/2019