The Impact of Patriarchy on Our Mental Health

The United States is a patriarchal society. To prove this, we only need to look at the gender pay gap: The Pew Research Analysis found that women earn on average 82 cents for every dollar earned by a man. And, of course, there are diminishing reproductive rights, and lack of employment rights regarding maternity and childcare.
 
It is inevitable that this patriarchal structure will have an adverse impact on our mental health, and here’s why:

1. Internalized Gender Roles and Psychological Strain

One of the most insidious ways that patriarchy affects mental health is through the internalization of rigid gender roles. People are often socialized from a young age into believing that they must conform to specific expectations based on their gender. For women, this often means being nurturing, passive, and focused on caretaking or domestic duties, while for men, it entails being assertive, emotionally reserved, and financially successful. These internalized roles create significant psychological strain because they limit individual self-expression and foster feelings of inadequacy in those who fail to meet these expectations.

2. Gendered Violence and Trauma

Patriarchy not only shapes societal expectations but also legitimizes and perpetuates various forms of gendered violence, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Women and gender minorities, in particular, are disproportionately affected by these forms of violence, which can lead to long-term psychological trauma. Survivors of gender-based violence may experience PTSD, depression, anxiety, and a heightened sense of distrust towards others.

Patriarchal systems often minimize or deny the severity of these experiences, leading to a lack of social support for survivors. The normalization of toxic masculinity, where power, control, and aggression are seen as markers of strength, also creates a culture where abuse is downplayed, further compounding the emotional and psychological burden on victims.

3. Psychological Costs of Male Privilege

While much of the conversation around patriarchy focuses on its harmful effects on women and marginalized groups, it is crucial to understand that men, too, are psychologically impacted by patriarchal structures. The societal expectation that men must always be strong, unemotional, and self-reliant can create an immense amount of psychological pressure. This pressure manifests in several ways:

• Suppressed Emotions: Patriarchy teaches men to suppress emotions like sadness, fear, and vulnerability. This emotional repression can lead to anxiety, depression, and even anger disorders.
• The Fear of Losing Power: Patriarchal systems often teach men to equate their self-worth with their position of power. The potential loss of status—whether through professional setbacks, changes in gender dynamics, or shifting societal norms—can trigger feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, and a fear of losing their masculine identity.
• Isolation: Men in patriarchal societies may struggle with forming close emotional connections because they are discouraged from expressing vulnerability. This isolation can lead to loneliness, depression, and an inability to develop healthy, supportive relationships.

4. Cognitive Dissonance and Conflict

Patriarchy also contributes to cognitive dissonance—the psychological tension that arises when one’s beliefs or actions are in conflict with their internal values. This can be particularly damaging when individuals are taught that they must act in ways that perpetuate oppressive systems. For instance, men who benefit from patriarchal privilege but recognize its harm may feel guilt or discomfort, leading to inner conflict. Similarly, women who are constrained by traditional gender roles but aspire to pursue personal ambitions may struggle with feelings of self-doubt or guilt.

Such cognitive dissonance can create significant emotional distress, as people are torn between their values and the pressures imposed upon them by a patriarchal society.

5. Mental Health in the Context of Intersectionality

The impact of patriarchy on mental health cannot be fully understood without considering its intersection with other systems of oppression, such as race, class, and sexuality. For example, women of color or LGBTQ+ individuals are often subject to compounded forms of discrimination and violence that exacerbate the mental health effects of patriarchy.

• Women of Color: Racism and sexism are intertwined in ways that uniquely impact women of color, subjecting them to microaggressions, violence, and stereotypes. These overlapping forms of discrimination can lead to a higher prevalence of mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma.
• LGBTQ+ Individuals: Members of the LGBTQ+ community face additional challenges due to both patriarchal norms and heteronormative expectations. Rejection, discrimination, and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals often result in feelings of isolation, self-hatred, and a higher risk of mental health crises.

Beyond Patriarchy

The path to healing and mental well-being involves recognizing and challenging the harmful effects of patriarchy, both at the individual and societal levels. For those affected by patriarchal oppression, this may involve helping individuals to explore and understand the ways in which patriarchal norms have shaped their self-concept, relationships, and mental health. Psychotherapists often work with individuals to untangle internalized gender norms and promote self-compassion.

Patriarchy is a complex and deeply ingrained social system that affects mental health in ways that are often invisible or underestimated. Its harmful effects can be seen in the rigid gender roles it imposes, the violence it legitimizes, and the cognitive dissonance it creates in both men and women. Recognizing and addressing the psychological toll of patriarchy is essential not only for individual well-being but also for creating a more just, equitable society. As awareness grows, and as individuals and communities take active steps to dismantle patriarchal structures, the path to healing and mental health will become more accessible for all.

If you’re looking for additional support, we are here to help. Book online for a free telephone call with our lead clinician, Chris Warren-Dickins.

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