Learning to recognize and respond to sexism is a process of reconstruction. Although sexism creates inequality for all genders, women and girls, as well as those who present as feminine, often suffer greater consequences. Being the recipient of sexism can lead to feelings of anger and confusion. Read on to learn how to identify and respond to benevolent and hostile sexism with your own feminist voice.
What is hostile and benevolent sexism?
bisexual sexismSexism, a theory coined by researchers Glick and Fiske, refers to the dual components of sexism: hostile and benevolent. Although different in style, they complement the male dominance.
Benevolent sexism (BS) is a form of sexism that is often viewed with subjective positivity due to its guise as flattery and protection. It exists more openly and has greater acceptance among men and women.
BS believes that women need protection and that men should offer care and nurturing in return. Presenting as chivalry, the men who engage in it a kind of sexism Seen as a favourite. These sexist beliefs remain harmful and depend on problematic paternalism and gender inequalities to thrive.
When women are not seen as capable and whole, there are negative implications for performance, personal and professional growth. Research studies have shown that exposure to BS is associated with lower cognitive performance of women, Chronic discrimination, i.e. pervasive sexism and sexual harassment, is related to lower well-being.
Getting BS “belongs to”women have amazing influence,” but leads to experiencing intrusive thoughts, prejudices, and self-doubt. Being a victim of BS unconsciously contributes to women’s continued subordination. Unconsciously fearing loss of protection from intimate relationships with men , women support BS.
BS aligns with viewing women as sex objects and shifts attention away from their potential over their physical appearance. Women then feel pressured to spend undue time and resources on unrealistic beauty ideals because they have been conditioned to believe that their worth is related to their looks; Another form of subordination of women.
Hostile sexism (HS) is present when women exist outside of traditional gender roles. Defying patriarchal norms has the potential to lead to oppression. Labels such as bitchy, aggressive, and cold are common and justified by the claim that “women are attempting to control or seduce men with their sexuality and feminism.”
HS is often present Private Sector In cis hate relationships. Male intimate partners appear kind in public but allow their disdain for women to be projected in private which places women at greater risk of domestic abuse. HS is less insidious and gives women the opportunity to deflect blame for this behavior. On the other hand, BS causes more intrusive thoughts and further reduces women’s performance.
How to respond to benevolent and hostile sexism
The first step in responding to sexism is learning to recognize the signs. Begin to notice the difference between hostile and benevolent comments, as well as when and where they occur. Feelings of shock, rage and confusion may arise; Respect these feelings, they are important for your growth feminist voice,
Practice responding to sexism in your mind, in a journal, or by joining a women’s group based on feminist practices. It can be difficult to respond in the moment due to many years of conditioning and inner misogyny, Keep in mind that automatic thoughts and reactions are learned to keep women safe.
Over time, you’ll become more comfortable confronting sexism directly. Change happens when knowledge about the harms of sexism is shared, and individuals are willing to stand up for gender equality.
Common Choices for Responding to Sexism
- If someone says something sexist, simply reply, “That’s sexist.”
- “I’m not sure what you mean by that comment. It sounds like you’re demeaning women; is that your intention?”
- “That comment doesn’t deserve a response; maybe it’s time to look up the word Hatred against womanhood,
- If you’re feeling flustered, pretend you didn’t hear and say, “What?” The more someone has to repeat a sexist comment, the more ridiculous it seems.
- Instead of commenting on women’s physical appearance, make notes about women as a whole:
- “I love your energy.”
- “I am impressed by your presence.”
- “Wow, you’re smart!”
The Beauty in Finding Your Feminist Voice
Be kind to yourself as you begin to deconstruct the patriarchy and its woes. As you learn to recognize and reject sexism, you can prepare yourself for feelings of loneliness and sadness. You are not alone and you have inherent strength, should you choose to seek it. The absence of benevolent sexism can feel like rejection by men; Basically, it means that you are worthy of respect and acceptance regardless of your gender orientation. When all have equality, there is no need for one to dominate the other.
Choose to support women and all oppressed groups, not when it’s convenient for you, not always.
