Family dependence on patriarchal role of the man

Dependence of wife on husband
Dependence of children on father

Nature

An economic tie traditionally binds both wife and children to the father as the provider. It is this bond which enables the father to act in an authoritarian manner, subjugating the wife and any children. This bond is a major factor hindering the emancipation of the woman.

Background

The global significance of family dependence on the patriarchal role of the man emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as sociologists and anthropologists documented the persistence of male-dominated family structures across diverse cultures. Feminist movements and international organizations later highlighted the social and economic consequences of this dependence, prompting comparative studies and policy debates. Increased cross-cultural research since the 1970s has deepened understanding of its impact on gender equality and family well-being.

Incidence

Family dependence on the patriarchal role of the man remains prevalent in many societies worldwide, particularly in regions of South Asia, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa. This dependence often results in limited economic and social autonomy for women and children, perpetuating gender inequality and restricting access to education, healthcare, and employment. Despite global efforts to promote gender equality, traditional family structures continue to reinforce male authority, affecting millions of households and impeding social progress.
In 2022, a study in rural Uttar Pradesh, India, revealed that over 80% of families relied solely on male breadwinners, with women excluded from financial decision-making and employment opportunities (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9278572/).

Claim

Family dependence on the patriarchal role of the man is a deeply troubling issue that perpetuates inequality and stifles the potential of all family members. This outdated dynamic limits women’s autonomy, burdens men with unrealistic expectations, and hinders children’s understanding of equality. Challenging and dismantling this dependence is crucial for building healthier, more equitable families and societies. Ignoring this problem only allows injustice and imbalance to persist across generations.

Counter-claim

The key problem of the underclass - the cradle of crime, violence, and poverty - is the failure of the socialization of young men through marriage. Yet nearly all social welfare strategies - subsidies, training opportunities, therapies - are aimed at helping women function without husbands.