Gendered Expectations and Women's Sexual Assertiveness
Gendered expectations are social norms that dictate how men and women should act according to their assigned gender roles. These expectations can have a significant impact on women's sexual assertiveness, influencing how they initiate, participate in, and enjoy sexual activity. In this article, we will explore the ways that gendered expectations shape women's experiences of sex and intimacy and discuss strategies for empowering women to take charge of their own sexual desires.
What is Gendered Expectation?
Gendered expectations are societal norms that specify how men and women should behave based on their biological sex.
Women are often expected to be passive, submissive, and nurturing while men are expected to be aggressive, dominant, and protective. These expectations are shaped by cultural attitudes about masculinity and femininity, which vary across cultures and time periods. They can influence everything from how people dress, speak, work, and interact with others.
How do Gendered Expectations Impact Women's Sexuality?
Gendered expectations can limit women's sexual expression in several ways. First, society may pressure women to conform to traditional gender roles during sexual encounters. This could mean acting subservient or passive, denying their own desires, or avoiding speaking up about what they want. Second, women may feel shame or guilt about engaging in activities that are considered "masculine," such as initiating sex or enjoying certain types of erotic behavior. Third, some women may internalize the idea that only heterosexual relationships are valid and acceptable, limiting their options and experiences. Fourth, women who don't fit into traditional gender roles may face discrimination or abuse.
Society may fail to acknowledge or celebrate women's diverse sexualities, leading them to hide or suppress their true selves.
Strategies for Empowering Women to Take Charge of Their Own Sexual Desires
There are several strategies that can help empower women to take charge of their own sexual desires:
1. Acknowledging and accepting one's sexuality is crucial. Women should embrace all aspects of their sexuality, including fantasies, interests, and desires. This includes exploring different forms of intimacy, such as BDSM or polyamory. 2. Communication is key. Women should communicate clearly with partners about their needs, wants, and boundaries. They should also express their desires without shame or fear of judgement. 3. Self-care is essential. Taking care of mental and physical health can improve overall well-being and enhance sexual pleasure. Women should prioritize rest, exercise, nutrition, and stress management. 4. Seek support from other women. Joining a women's group or online community can provide emotional validation, education, and resources for exploration. 5. Challenge societal norms. Challenging traditional gender expectations can create space for new perspectives and experiences. Women should speak up against harmful stereotypes and advocate for equality in relationships and sexual encounters.
Gendered expectations can have a significant impact on women's sexual assertiveness, influencing how they initiate, participate in, and enjoy sexual activity. By acknowledging and embracing their sexuality, communicating clearly, practicing self-care, seeking support, and challenging societal norms, women can empower themselves to take charge of their own sexual desires.
How do gendered expectations influence women's sexual assertiveness?
Gendered expectations have been shown to play a significant role in shaping women's experiences with sexuality, and particularly their ability to express sexual assertiveness. Research has found that women who conform to traditional feminine norms of being passive and submissive in bed are often less likely to be sexually satisfied than those who take an active role in initiating and guiding sexual encounters (Davis & Davis, 2018).