A relationship is a dynamic process between individuals that involves many factors such as communication, trust, respect, love, physical attraction, and emotional attachment. When these factors are present, the relationship becomes more stable and fulfilling.
When there is no equality among partners due to social oppression, one partner may feel inferior or superior to another which can lead to an unbalanced power structure. Social oppression refers to discrimination based on gender, race, class, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. It creates a feeling of unequal treatment within a relationship. In this article, I will discuss how social oppression affects the moral self-concept of lovers.
Social oppression causes negative feelings toward oneself which can be internalized in the moral self-concept.
If a woman is mistreated because she is female, it can create a sense of shame and guilt about being a woman. This can cause her to doubt her worth and value as a person. Similarly, if a man feels ashamed for his sexuality, it can lead to low self-esteem. The person may start blaming themselves for the problem rather than the external factors causing the issue. They may begin to believe they deserve the oppression and are responsible for their own suffering.
Social oppression leads to self-blame and self-hatred. Lovers who experience social oppression often find it difficult to break free from its effects. They may feel guilty and ashamed for being different from others. They may think they are not worthy of love or affection and that they do not deserve better treatment. These thoughts become internalized into the moral self-concept resulting in lowered self-esteem and confidence.
Social oppression breeds resentment and anger towards the other partner. When one partner experiences oppression, they may hold onto anger towards the other partner for allowing it to happen. They may believe that the other person does not care enough to stand up for them and defend them against discrimination. This can create tension and frustration within the relationship leading to arguments and conflicts. It also erodes trust between partners.
Fourth, social oppression creates a fear of rejection. Lovers who face oppression may be afraid of losing their partner due to prejudice or bigotry. They may hide their true selves and avoid discussing important issues for fear of judgement or criticism. This can lead to emotional distance and detachment which further harms the relationship. The fear of rejection can cause anxiety and paranoia within the relationship.
Social oppression can lead to isolation and loneliness. Lovers who experience it may find themselves isolated from friends and family members who do not understand their situation. They may feel lonely and misunderstood by those around them. This can exacerbate feelings of shame and guilt which can further damage the relationship.
Lovers who experience social oppression must learn to challenge their beliefs and attitudes about themselves and the world around them. By doing so, they can break free from its effects on their relationships and build stronger connections with others.
How does social oppression become internalized within the moral self-concept of lovers?
Social oppression can be internalized by individuals who are in romantic relationships when they begin to feel like they have little control over their lives due to the lack of agency that comes from being in an abusive relationship. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-worth as they start to believe that they deserve to be treated poorly because of their personal characteristics.