This thesis addresses the phenomenon of female suicide bombings. Earlier thought to be an act of terrorism solely perpetrated by males, the increasing number of female suicide bombers has made this view untenable. What are their motives? Realist approaches have provided limited explanatory power in addressing the variation in the use of female suicide terrorism; constructivism has tended to provide a better model toward addressing individual, organizational and societal acceptance of this tactic, particularly as it relates to women. The comparative study of female suicide bombings has immediate policy and counterterrorism implications, but it can also shed light on the debate between materialist and constructivist approaches in international relations theory and in the formulation of military doctrine.

This thesis looks at five memorable female suicide bombings and focus on understanding their reasons for joining such organizations and what makes them commit such acts. It is the goal of the researcher to provide information showing that female suicide bombings are a waste of a life with no outcome is made after giving their life.