To install StudyMoose App tap and then “Add to Home Screen”
Save to my list
Remove from my list
In today's ever-evolving society, the role of a housewife has become a topic of intense debate and scrutiny. A recent television discussion showcased the contrasting opinions of two groups, each containing a husband and wife with conflicting views on whether women should pursue careers or embrace the traditional role of a housewife. The nuances of this debate shed light on the complexities that arise when trying to navigate the delicate balance between domestic responsibilities and professional aspirations.
The debate, skillfully moderated to avoid descending into a chaotic argument, uncovered the perplexing double standards held by some husbands.
While advocating for their wives to stay at home until the children are of a certain age, they simultaneously endorsed the idea of their daughters or sisters pursuing careers. This contradiction begs the question: why these dual expectations?
One participant, a highly qualified double postgraduate woman, expressed her frustration after waiting over a decade to start her career. Her husband, unable to provide a satisfactory answer, exemplified the struggle faced by many educated women who find themselves torn between their professional aspirations and societal expectations.
Another perspective emerged from a man with a transferable job who insisted on his family accompanying him.
Verified writer
Proficient in: Wife
5 (204)
“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”
Despite acknowledging his wife's qualifications, he prioritized his daughter's education, dreaming of her admission to IIM at Ahmedabad. When questioned about allowing his daughter to work in the future, he revealed a refusal, exposing the inherent contradictions in his stance.
Some husbands argued against their wives taking on the dual role of managing both home and a job.
Citing the hazards of commuting, the stress of demanding bosses, and the challenges of meeting deadlines, they believed that the wife's presence at home could alleviate these concerns. However, this perspective failed to consider the option of the wife finding employment in the city of relocation.
One woman accused her husband of being accustomed to her waiting on him, suggesting that this habit fueled his reluctance to see her pursue a career. On the other hand, a supportive husband, advocating for women's empowerment, believed that confident women capable of balancing home and career should be encouraged. According to him, women possess a remarkable strength that surpasses that of men.
The debate also delved into the emotional struggles faced by working mothers. A woman shared her discontent about leaving her child at a crèche while attending the office, navigating the delicate situation of seeking permission from her boss for any calls from the crèche. Her husband, sharing household responsibilities and participating in childcare, questioned her ability to stay at home continuously, highlighting the challenges of managing both roles seamlessly.
Opinions were divided between those advocating for women's right to work and those asserting that managing a family within the husband's earnings is a woman's duty. The latter group argued that the stress of handling both home and career is overwhelming and that being at home allows women to focus on family members' well-being and actively participate in their children's education.
The concept of family support emerged as a crucial factor in the debate. Those supporting working women emphasized the importance of quality time and pointed out that children with working mothers tend to be more independent and aware of their responsibilities. The ongoing discussion showcased diverse opinions, including a controversial claim that a significant percentage of working women were going astray, an assertion met with widespread condemnation.
Despite the diverse viewpoints, the central question remains: is a woman capable of effectively managing both home and career? The debate raises concerns about whether husbands advocating for their wives to be housewives are driven by selfish motives or genuine concerns. The societal perception of women's roles is evolving, and the desire for financial independence and confidence gained through professional pursuits cannot be underestimated.
Women, adept at multitasking, are equipped to handle the challenges of commuting, dealing with difficult situations, and managing demanding bosses. While physical strength may be a differentiating factor, emotional resilience becomes a powerful tool for women navigating crises. The ability to find innovative solutions, such as waking up an hour earlier if necessary, exemplifies the determination and resourcefulness that women bring to the table.
Expanding the discussion to consider societal expectations and the evolving nature of work, it's essential to acknowledge the changing landscape of employment opportunities. In the past, the conventional model of a housewife was rooted in the idea that women should solely focus on managing the household. However, as times have progressed, so have societal norms and expectations.
Modern women are increasingly seeking fulfillment in both domestic and professional spheres. The debate goes beyond the individual capabilities of women and delves into the structural aspects of our society. It questions whether the traditional roles assigned to men and women are still relevant in the contemporary world.
One aspect that emerged from the discussion was the impact of societal attitudes on women's choices. Those advocating for women's right to work argued that limiting women to the role of a housewife perpetuates gender stereotypes and restricts their potential. They emphasized the importance of empowering women to make choices based on their abilities, skills, and desires rather than conforming to societal expectations.
On the other hand, proponents of the traditional housewife role highlighted the potential stress and challenges that come with juggling both a career and household responsibilities. They argued that being a housewife allows women to focus on the intricate details of managing a home, providing emotional support to family members, and actively participating in their children's upbringing.
The debate also touched upon the concept of quality time and its impact on family dynamics. Supporters of working women argued that the quality of time spent with family is more crucial than the quantity. They asserted that children with working mothers develop a sense of independence and responsibility, contributing to a more balanced and egalitarian family structure.
Furthermore, the discussion delved into the idea of financial independence and its role in empowering women. Advocates for working women highlighted the economic benefits of women contributing to the household income. They argued that financial independence not only enhances a woman's self-esteem but also contributes to a more equitable distribution of responsibilities within the family.
However, the debate wasn't without its challenges. One participant stirred controversy by suggesting that a significant percentage of working women were straying from societal norms. This claim, met with vehement opposition, brought to the forefront the importance of avoiding sweeping generalizations and recognizing the diversity of experiences among working women.
As the debate continues, it becomes evident that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The choice between being a housewife or pursuing a career is deeply personal and influenced by various factors, including individual aspirations, family dynamics, and societal expectations. It is crucial to recognize and respect the agency of women in making choices that align with their goals and values.
Looking ahead, the evolving nature of work opens up new possibilities for women to strike a balance between home and career. The rise of remote work, flexible schedules, and part-time opportunities provides women with alternatives that cater to their diverse needs and preferences.
In conclusion, the housewife debate reflects the ongoing societal dialogue surrounding the roles and expectations placed on women. It prompts us to reconsider deeply ingrained stereotypes and encourages a more inclusive and supportive environment for women to pursue their aspirations, whether in the domestic sphere, the professional realm, or a harmonious combination of both.
The Housewife Dilemma: Balancing Home and Career. (2017, Feb 04). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/housewife-vs-working-women-essay
👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!
Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.
get help with your assignment
