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Gendered Power in Cultural Contexts: Part III. Couple Relationships in Iran
Author(s) -
MOGHADAM SEDDIGHEH SANDY,
KNUDSONMARTIN CARMEN,
MAHONEY ANNE RANKIN
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
family process
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.011
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1545-5300
pISSN - 0014-7370
DOI - 10.1111/j.1545-5300.2009.01266.x
Subject(s) - variety (cybernetics) , power (physics) , face (sociological concept) , social psychology , sociology , gender studies , psychology , social science , computer science , artificial intelligence , physics , quantum mechanics
Sometimes therapists assume that gender equality is not relevant when working with couples from traditional cultures. This study of couples in Iran suggests more complexity. The authors identify a variety of views and practices regarding equality between men and women in relationships. Some aspired to traditional roles; others attempted to create mutually supportive relationships. Yet others were somewhere in‐between. This study helps identify important dimensions that may be overlooked when we define couple equality only by American standards or understand it only through a Western lens. The study provides insight into the dilemmas couples face when ideals of equality intersect with societal structures that maintain gendered power and offers suggestions for addressing gender when working with couples with traditional cultural backgrounds.