Dec 4, 202310 min read

Women Are Also Guilty of Gender Inequality!

In gender equality, it's crucial not to blame just one gender unfairly. While feminists are often unjustly criticized for allegedly accusing men of all societal wrongs, authentic feminism seeks parity between men and women.

It becomes pivotal to acknowledge that women, unintentionally yet significantly, contribute to the gender disparities. This blog aims to illuminate a less-explored facet of the issue — how women themselves may unknowingly play a role in sustaining gender inequalities.

In this blog, we will delve into specific behaviors and attitudes that, although often subconscious, contribute to the broader issue. The objective is not to assign blame but to foster awareness and initiate conversations that encourage both men and women to collectively challenge and change deeply rooted beliefs blocking the way to real equality.

Why Women Are Just as Guilty of Gender Inequality as Men?

Molding for Acceptance

In fulfilling societal expectations, women sometimes find themselves entangled in a quest for acceptance that requires compromising their authenticity.

"Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we are." - Brené Brown

Trying to mold themselves into what they think men want at the expense of their values

In modern relationships, some women, driven by societal pressures and misguided expectations, engage in a delicate balancing act. They strive to conform to preconceived notions of what men desire, often sacrificing their values. This behavior started a long time ago when some harmful dating advice, given mainly by women, spread stereotypes. These stereotypes said a woman's value depended on how well she could attract and keep a man.

The consequences of this societal conditioning are profound. Women may find themselves suppressing their true essence, compelled to adopt personas that align with traditional gender norms. The common idea spread by the media and in personal connections suggests that a woman's happiness depends on meeting a man's expectations.

Even mothers, influenced by patriarchal norms, contribute to this cycle by urging their daughters to focus on trying to be what their men want instead of embracing their unique selves.

The damaging impact of this mindset instructs women on how to conform to a set of behaviors to attract and retain a partner. One notable example is the book and film "He's Just Not That Into You," which, rather than empowering women, reinforces regressive stereotypes and encourages the relentless pursuit of male validation.

Challenging this normative behavior and encouraging women to embrace their authenticity is crucial. Individuals should be empowered to build relationships founded on mutual respect, where partners appreciate each other for who they are. Breaking free from the mold of societal expectations is a collective endeavor involving a conscious effort to redefine relationship dynamics and foster environments that celebrate individuality over conformity.

Shifting Blame

Within the complexities of relationships and societal norms, a tendency persists among both men and women to shift blame onto the "other woman" when infidelity rears its challenging head.

"You can't change the past, but you can ruin the present by worrying about the future." - Unknown

Blaming the “Other Woman”

In the aftermath of infidelity, a familiar narrative unfolds, casting the woman involved as the primary antagonist while often downplaying the responsibility of the unfaithful man. This tendency to vilify the "other woman" perpetuates a harmful stereotype that positions women against each other, fostering an environment of judgment rather than understanding.

Historically, instances of high-profile affairs amplify this pattern. A notable example is the media portrayal of Camilla during her affair with the now-King Charles, where she was painted as the "home wrecker," receiving disproportionate blame compared to Charles. The societal inclination to label women as seductresses and men as victims not only oversimplifies complex relationships but also contributes to a culture that shields men from accountability.

Moreover, women themselves can reinforce this blame-shifting dynamic. Some individuals, influenced by societal norms or personal insecurities, readily place the onus on the "other woman" rather than addressing the root causes of infidelity. Phrases such as "boys will be boys" or "it’s what men do" serve to excuse and normalize unfaithful behavior, contributing to a culture that expects and tolerates infidelity as an inherent aspect of male nature.

This narrative is not only unfair to women but also diminishes the agency and responsibility of men. By attributing infidelity to biological factors like testosterone levels, society risks perpetuating harmful stereotypes that portray men as inherently unfaithful. It is essential to challenge these notions and recognize that fidelity is a matter of personal choice and moral values, irrespective of gender.

Hence, shifting blame onto the "other woman" perpetuates a divisive narrative that impedes progress toward genuine gender equality. Addressing infidelity requires a nuanced approach that acknowledges the agency of all parties involved and dismantles stereotypes that undermine the potential for healthy, respectful relationships.

Reinforcing Stereotypes

In the intricate fabric of societal norms, the reinforcement of stereotypical gender roles and the unequal distribution of responsibilities often finds its roots.

"The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." - Alice Walker

Enforcing stereotypical gender roles and labor division

Despite progress, society still grapples with deeply ingrained gender stereotypes that dictate expectations for both men and women.

Studies consistently reveal that women bear a disproportionate burden of unpaid labor, including housework and childcare. While strides have been made, the expectation for women to primarily assume caregiving responsibilities endures. Maternity leave policies, with women receiving more extended leaves than men, further emphasize traditional gender roles and contribute to the persistent notion that child-rearing is primarily a woman's responsibility.

In this context, mothers often become subjects of intense scrutiny, with their choices dissected and judged by society, particularly by other mothers. Decisions such as not breastfeeding or enjoying a night out are scrutinized, creating an environment where women feel pressured to conform to a narrow set of expectations. Recent incidents, like the backlash against actress Rebel Wilson for a night out without her baby, exemplify society's tendency to judge and police mothers' actions.

Furthermore, the narrative surrounding fathers' involvement in childcare perpetuates stereotypes. Fathers who actively participate in raising their children are often portrayed as exceptions rather than the norm. The term "babysitting" is applied when fathers care for their children, reinforcing that childcare is a woman's responsibility.

While progress has been made, the road to true gender equality involves challenging and dismantling these stereotypes. Encouraging shared responsibilities in parenting, promoting policies that support both parents in balancing work and childcare, and eradicating judgmental attitudes towards mothers are essential steps toward creating a society where predefined gender roles do not confine individuals.

Upholding Double Standards

As per societal expectations, women often find themselves navigating a web of double standards that unfairly judge and restrict their choices.

"The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Double standards are deeply ingrained in society, perpetuating the notion that men and women should be judged differently for similar behaviors.

The term "slut-shaming" exemplifies one aspect of double standards. Women who have multiple partners are often subjected to judgment and criticism, while men with similar behaviors may face little to no scrutiny. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for women to participate in this judgment, reflecting internalized societal norms.

Personal anecdotes, such as the author's university experience, highlight the prevalence of this double standard. The term "slut" was used to criticize a woman for having a few casual flings, while men engaging in similar behavior faced minimal censure. The judgment was not only perpetuated by men but, strikingly, by other women.

This double standard extends beyond relationships and into societal expectations, influencing how women perceive their worth. Society, at times fueled by women themselves, may unfairly associate a woman's value with her sexual history, while men are not subjected to the same scrutiny. The toxic belief that men only respect chaste and pure women can lead women to conform to unrealistic and outdated expectations.

Challenging these double standards requires a collective effort. Women can actively resist participating in judgmental behavior and promote a culture of acceptance and equality. By reframing the conversation around personal choices and dismantling the notion that a woman's worth is tied to her sexual history, progress toward a society free from double standards can be achieved.

Gold Diggers

In relationships and societal expectations, a term known as "gold-digging" often surfaces, perpetuating gender roles and expectations.

"A woman should be two things: who and what she wants." - Coco Chanel

The term "gold digger" refers to individuals, often women, who seek financial security through relationships rather than personal achievement.

Some women may consciously or subconsciously aspire to marry wealthy men for financial security. This desire, fueled by societal expectations and traditional gender roles, reinforces the stereotype that a man should be the primary breadwinner while a woman assumes a more passive, dependent role. Encouraging financial independence for women is crucial for breaking free from these outdated norms and fostering equal partnerships.

Additionally, the expectation that men should foot the bill on dates and provide financial support perpetuates traditional gender roles. While gestures of generosity can be appreciated, assuming that a man must always pay can reinforce stereotypes and hinder progress toward equality. It's essential to recognize that financial contributions in a relationship should be a shared responsibility based on individual capacities rather than gender expectations.

By challenging these expectations, women can actively contribute to dismantling the notion that a woman's worth is tied to a man's financial status. Encouraging self-sufficiency and independence empowers women to pursue their goals without relying on traditional gender roles for validation. Embracing economic equality within relationships fosters an environment where both partners contribute based on their abilities, promoting mutual respect and breaking free from societal expectations that limit individual potential.

Undermining Feminism

In the ongoing pursuit of gender equality, there exists a paradox where some women actively distance themselves from feminism, inadvertently contributing to the perpetuation of societal norms that hinder progress.

"Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength." - G.D. Anderson

Laughing at feminists and belittling their impact

Within the spectrum of gender equality discussions, some women dismiss or trivialize feminism, often minimizing its achievements and impact.

Some women hold the viewpoint that feminism is unnecessary, and they mock those who actively identify as feminists. This attitude stems from a mindset that perceives gender equality as either already achieved or as an unattainable ideal. By laughing at feminists or belittling their impact, these women inadvertently contribute to the maintenance of traditional gender norms.

This dismissive stance is often rooted in a belief that societal structures are unchangeable, leading to a sense of resignation. The question, "Why bother to change anything? It’s just the way it is?" encapsulates this attitude, undermining the essence of feminist movements that have historically challenged and transformed societal norms.

It is crucial to recognize that such attitudes hinder progress. Feminism has been instrumental in granting women the right to pursue careers, make choices about their bodies, and challenge deeply ingrained stereotypes. The freedoms women enjoy today are partly a result of the relentless efforts of feminists who refused to accept the status quo.

Hence, it is essential to foster an environment where women not only embrace feminism but actively contribute to its growth. Recognizing the achievements of the feminist movement and acknowledging its ongoing relevance are vital steps toward dismantling gender biases and creating a society where both men and women enjoy equal opportunities and freedoms.

Women who are pro-life

In reproductive rights, perspectives on abortion vary widely, and some women identify as pro-life, advocating against the right to choose.

"Freedom means the supremacy of human rights everywhere. Our support goes to those who struggle to gain those rights and keep them." - Franklin D. Roosevelt

The pro-life stance, adopted by some women, opposes the right to choose abortion. This section delves into how, despite personal convictions, women who support pro-life positions may unintentionally contribute to limiting reproductive freedom, entrenching traditional gender roles.

While it's entirely valid for a woman to personally choose against abortion, actively campaigning against the right to choose can inadvertently perpetuate gender imbalances. The pro-life movement, often driven by traditionalist values, positions women as the primary bearers of responsibility for parenthood. This perspective places an undue burden on women, especially in cases of unwanted pregnancies resulting from rape or situations where women are not psychologically or financially equipped to raise a child.

Supporting anti-abortion measures indirectly reinforces the narrative that women must bear the consequences of unplanned pregnancies alone, even in cases where the father is absent or unwilling to take responsibility. By backing the anti-abortion movement, women may inadvertently endorse a system that limits their autonomy and reinforces patriarchal norms.

Additionally, pro-life positions tend to disregard the complexities of reproductive health. Women who support these views may unintentionally contribute to a societal narrative that places the burden of parenthood solely on women. This contradicts the principles of gender equality by perpetuating traditional gender roles where women are expected to prioritize motherhood over personal autonomy.

It is essential to recognize the broader implications of pro-life advocacy and its potential contribution to limiting women's agency. Engaging in open and respectful conversations about reproductive rights can foster understanding and contribute to a society where women can make choices about their bodies without facing judgment or restrictions.

Final Thought:

In gender dynamics, it becomes evident that achieving true equality requires a collective effort from both men and women. This blog has explored various facets where women, sometimes unwittingly, perpetuate gender stereotypes and biases.

From the pressure to conform to societal expectations in relationships to the reinforcement of double standards, the journey towards gender equality is multifaceted. Influenced by deeply ingrained norms or societal pressures, women inadvertently contribute to systems limiting their potential.

In acknowledging these dynamics, it is crucial to emphasize the power of awareness and collective action. Challenging traditional norms, encouraging open conversations, and fostering an environment of mutual respect are essential steps toward dismantling the barriers that hinder progress.

Understanding that feminism is not an attack on men but a movement for equality is pivotal. Women laughing at or dismissing feminism inadvertently perpetuate the status quo. Embracing feminism and actively participating in the ongoing quest for gender equality is a shared responsibility.

Likewise, recognizing the broader implications of certain stances is crucial in matters of reproductive rights. Advocating for positions that limit reproductive freedom, even unintentionally, can reinforce traditional gender roles and hinder progress toward a society where women have agency over their bodies and choices.

By acknowledging the areas where women may inadvertently contribute to gender inequality, we pave the way for meaningful change. It's not about blame but collective empowerment, breaking free from societal expectations, and fostering a world where men and women can thrive as equals. The journey towards true gender equality is ongoing, and it requires the active participation of all individuals to create a society where everyone is afforded the same opportunities and respect, irrespective of gender.

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