Why is women's anger suppressed?

Sources:

The suppression of women's anger is driven by a combination of societal expectations and structural barriers. Experts explain that when women express anger, they are often perceived negatively, which contrasts with the positive perception of men's anger. This bias leads to women being discouraged from showing anger, making them appear "crazy" or less credible compared to men, who are seen as passionate or committed when expressing the same emotion 1.

As notes, societal conditioning teaches women to suppress anger to fit into roles that emphasize being nice and accommodating, which can have severe health implications. Suppressing anger can weaken the immune system, leading to higher susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. This is partly why women, who are more likely to suppress anger, account for 80% of autoimmune disease cases 2.

Furthermore, highlights that encouraging women to suppress anger disempowers them, as anger can be a powerful motivator for social justice and personal courage. Not allowing women to harness this emotion for positive change stifles their potential to stand up against injustices 1.

The fear of being labeled as the "angry woman" also limits women's authenticity and emotional expression. Addressing this requires societal changes to foster acceptance and understanding of healthy anger as a natural boundary defense and a tool for empowerment 3.

Embracing Anger

Kristin highlights the double standard surrounding anger, noting how men are often perceived positively when angry, while women face stigma. She emphasizes the importance of harnessing anger for social justice and personal empowerment, encouraging women to embrace their fierce nature. Rick adds depth by discussing the societal conditioning that leads to suppressed emotions, urging a reflection on the broader cultural implications of these dynamics.
Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson
Fierce Self-Compassion with Dr. Kristin Neff | Being Well Podcast 157
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