Inequality at Play in Community: Stigmatization of and Discrimination against Older Ever- single (Wo)Men

Abstract

This article discusses inequality faced by the ever-singles which is common yet generally unrecognized as such. While both ever-single men and women face inequality because of their marital status, it is essentially prevalent among women past marriageable age due to societal gender norms and expectations. Thus, the focus is on ever-single women’s experiences. The article lays the historical path towards gender equality and provides a brief theoretical outlook on why inequality towards women is pervasive, and why sometimes it is condoned by the community. Inequality is discussed in relation to stigma and discrimination (or singlism) posed upon the ever-singles men and women in daily life.  Examples of stigma and discrimination towards this specific group are presented.