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There’s a persistent inner dialogue that many of us share, often whispering doubts about our worth and capabilities, despite our accomplishments. This internal struggle, which many women experience, is known as Patriarchy Stress Disorder (PSD).
Coined by Dr. Valerie Rein in her book, Patriarchy Stress Disorder: The Invisible Inner Barrier to Women’s Happiness and Fulfillment, PSD describes the trauma inherited from generations of gender inequality. Dr. Rein observed that many women exhibit signs of trauma even without a clear traumatic event, realizing that this trauma could be passed down genetically.
PSD represents the cumulative mental, physical, and emotional toll of living in a patriarchal society, which has historically marginalized women. Dr. Rein explains that this “collective intergenerational trauma manifests as an unseen barrier to women’s achievements and overall well-being.” While her focus is primarily on women, PSD can also affect nonbinary individuals and men, yet it remains largely unrecognized.
Generational Impact of Patriarchal Systems
Dr. Rein emphasizes that her analysis of patriarchy is not about individual men but rather a systemic issue where power has been predominantly held by men, sidelining women for centuries. This oppression has created a legacy of trauma that affects countless generations of women, restricting their ability to fully express themselves, to feel safe, and to embrace their identity.
As Dr. Eugene Lipov points out, trauma can alter brain physiology, with effects that can be inherited. One notable consequence is a heightened fight-or-flight response, which leads to a constant feeling of unsafety. Dr. Rein notes, “The persistent signals from our nervous systems that we are unsafe hinder women from stepping into their full potential, and when they do, it often jeopardizes their health and relationships.”
Recognizing the Signs of PSD
Symptoms of PSD can be varied and may include:
- Feeling guilty for wanting more in life, as many women have historically prioritized survival over thriving.
- Experiencing imposter syndrome, doubting one’s achievements and feeling undeserving of recognition.
- Difficulty trusting one’s intuition.
- A persistent sense of physical or emotional unsafety, especially for outspoken or successful women.
- Heightened anxiety with increased success, as the nervous system interprets achievement as a potential threat.
Managing Symptoms of PSD
PSD often manifests in counterproductive coping mechanisms, such as substance use or avoidance behaviors like excessive scrolling on social media. However, there are healthier strategies for managing these symptoms:
- Acknowledging that PSD is a biological response rather than a personal flaw.
- Building connections with others who understand these experiences.
- Journaling to process thoughts and feelings.
- Engaging in physical activities that ground you in your body.
- Seeking professional therapy for support.
Societal changes are underway, albeit slowly, and future generations will benefit from addressing both gender inequity and inherited trauma. As DeAnna Jordan Crosby notes, healing from trauma can positively influence genetic makeup, enabling future generations to thrive without the burdens of past traumas.
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Summary
Patriarchy Stress Disorder (PSD) is a form of inherited trauma stemming from centuries of gender inequality, affecting many individuals’ mental and emotional well-being. Recognizing the signs and managing symptoms through healthier coping strategies can help mitigate its impact. It’s important to understand that healing from this trauma not only benefits individuals but also has the potential to positively affect future generations.