Patriarchy is so deeply embedded in modern culture that we may not realize the many ways patriarchy harms women in marriage.

Women married to mean husbands may suffer because of unfair rules, sometimes without knowing it. Here are three big ways these rules hurt women in marriage.

If you relate, attend a Betrayal Trauma Recovery Group Session TODAY.

1. Patriarchy Finds Ways to Treat Women & Girls Like Property

For a long time, women were seen as property with few rights. Even into the 1900s, people thought married women belonged to their husbands.

Even with new laws, this thinking still shows up in small ways, keeping women from having full control over their choices.

In the past, fathers would give their daughters to their new husbands, making it seem like women were things to be traded. Even after some laws changed to give married women more freedom, men found new ways to stay in control. People often used religion to make it seem like men had special power over women, and they still do today.

It’s important to know that these old practices are not supported by religious texts. Women should not be controlled, and understanding this can help you take back your independence.

2. Patriarchy Isolates and Controls Women & Girls

Within patriarchal structures, women and girls often experience restrictive practices that isolate and control them. This can manifest in various ways:

• Dress Codes: Women may be required to adhere to specific dress standards imposed by male authorities.
• Employment Restrictions: They might be prohibited from working outside the home or coerced to work without control over their income.
• Financial Dependence: Access to finances can be controlled, requiring a husband’s permission to spend money. They may be coerced to work outside the home, but not have any control over their own income
• Social Isolation: Women may be isolated from external social circles, confined to interacting only within high-control communities. They may not be allowed to associate with anyone outside of their high-control religious community and/or family. They may be coerced to homeschool their own children. They may be conditioned to raise their children in a similarly oppressive system.
• Religious Limitations: Participation in religious rituals might be restricted or dictated by male presence or approval.
• Educational Barriers: Access to education can be limited, restricting opportunities for personal development and independence.
• Sexual Coercion: They may be coerced into sexual activity
• Abuse: They may not be allowed to question their husband’s behavior – even abusive behavior

These methods of control are designed to maintain a power imbalance, making it difficult for women to break free from oppressive environments. Recognizing these tactics is essential for taking steps toward liberation.

3. Patriarchy Enables Abuse

Patriarchal systems make it easy for control and abuse to happen. In these systems, men in charge often ignore what women are saying.

When religion mixes with patriarchy, the chance of abuse gets worse. Women might be forced to obey because of threats of punishment from God, keeping them stuck in a cycle of abuse.

If you find yourself in such a situation, understanding that seeking safety is not sinful is crucial. At BTR.ORG, we provide support for women navigating these challenging circumstances. Our community is here to help you find a path to safety and healing.

You don’t have to do this alone – attend a BTR.ORG Group Session today and find a community that understands and validates you.