Despite significant progress in gender equality, subtle and overt societal pressures still attempt to control women’s lives, choices, and bodies. These methods of control can be deeply ingrained in cultural norms, media portrayals, and even personal interactions. Recognizing these tactics is the first step toward dismantling them and reclaiming full autonomy. This article explores six ways society continues to exert control over women. It also offers actionable strategies for fighting back and fostering true empowerment.
1. Unrealistic Beauty Standards and Body Shaming
Society relentlessly bombards women with narrow and often unattainable beauty ideals through media, advertising, and social platforms. This constant pressure to conform can lead to severe body image issues, eating disorders, and low self-esteem, a primary way society controls women.
Women are made to feel their worth is tied to their physical appearance, diverting their energy and resources towards chasing an elusive perfection. To fight back, actively challenge these standards by curating your media consumption, celebrating diverse body types, and focusing on health over appearance. Practice self-love and call out body-shaming comments when you encounter them, fostering a more inclusive environment.
2. The Motherhood Mandate and Career Penalties
Women often face immense pressure to prioritize motherhood above all else, with their career ambitions sometimes viewed as secondary or selfish. This “motherhood mandate” implies a woman’s ultimate fulfillment is found only in child-rearing, a way society controls women by limiting their perceived roles. Those who delay or choose not to have children can face judgment, while working mothers often experience the “motherhood penalty,” facing biases that stall career progression. Combat this by advocating for comprehensive parental leave policies for all genders, supporting women in leadership, and openly discussing diverse life paths and choices without judgment. Normalize the idea that a woman’s worth isn’t solely defined by her maternal status.
3. Restricting Reproductive Rights and Autonomy
Attempts to limit access to contraception and abortion are direct efforts to control women’s bodies and reproductive choices. These restrictions undermine a woman’s autonomy, impacting her health, economic stability, and overall life trajectory. When women cannot control their reproductive health, society controls women by dictating their futures. Fighting back involves actively supporting reproductive rights organizations, voting for policies that protect access to healthcare, and speaking out against legislation that seeks to diminish these fundamental rights. Educate yourself and others on the importance of bodily autonomy for everyone.
4. Gaslighting and Emotional Invalidation
Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic where women’s perceptions, emotions, and experiences are systematically denied or dismissed, making them doubt their own sanity. This emotional invalidation is a powerful tool of control, often used in personal relationships, workplaces, and even medical settings. It silences women and maintains power imbalances, ensuring society controls women by undermining their confidence in their own experiences. To counter this, learn to recognize gaslighting tactics, trust your intuition, and seek validation from supportive networks or professionals. Clearly assert your reality and refuse to let others define your experiences for you.
5. The Double Bind: Damned If You Do, Damned If You Don’t
Women frequently find themselves in “double bind” situations where they are criticized regardless of their choices or behavior. For example, an assertive woman might be labeled “bossy,” while a quieter one is deemed “passive” or “lacking leadership.” This no-win scenario is a subtle yet effective way society controls women by creating an environment of constant scrutiny and potential failure. To navigate this, become aware of these unfair paradoxes, call them out when you see them, and refuse to be confined by contradictory expectations. Strive for authenticity and support other women facing similar impossible choices.
6. Economic Disempowerment and the Gender Pay Gap
The persistent gender pay gap and underrepresentation in high-paying fields and leadership roles contribute to women’s economic disempowerment. Financial dependence or insecurity can severely limit a woman’s choices and ability to leave abusive situations or pursue her goals. This economic disparity is a significant way society controls women, keeping them in a more vulnerable position. Fight back by advocating for pay equity, supporting women-owned businesses, demanding transparency in compensation, and negotiating assertively for fair wages and promotions. Financial literacy and independence are key tools for empowerment.
Reclaiming Our Power, Step by Step
The societal controls placed on women are multifaceted and deeply embedded, but they are not insurmountable. By recognizing these tactics—from beauty standards and reproductive restrictions to emotional manipulation and economic inequality—we can actively work to dismantle them. True empowerment comes from challenging these norms, supporting one another, and advocating for systemic change. Every act of resistance, big or small, contributes to a future where women can live freely and authentically. It’s a continuous fight for autonomy and respect.
What other ways have you seen society try to control women, and what strategies do you find effective in fighting back? Share your insights in the comments below.
Read More:
9 Marriage Traditions That Were Designed to Control Women—And Still Do Today
8 Subtle Signs of Everyday Sexism Women Deal With
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