The term references a concept popularized by Betty Friedan in her 1963 book of the same name. It describes the widespread belief in the 1950s and 1960s that a woman’s fulfillment came solely from domestic duties such as being a wife, mother, and homemaker. This ideal, heavily promoted through media and cultural norms, limited women’s opportunities and aspirations beyond the domestic sphere. For example, many women with college degrees felt stifled and unfulfilled by their prescribed roles, experiencing a sense of dissatisfaction despite achieving the societal ideal of a happy suburban life.
Understanding this concept is crucial for comprehending the social and cultural shifts of the mid-20th century. It highlights the discontent simmering beneath the surface of post-World War II American society, a discontent that fueled the second-wave feminist movement. Recognizing the limitations imposed by this cultural ideal is essential for analyzing the challenges women faced in education, employment, and political participation during this period. Its emergence provides context for the subsequent push for equal rights and opportunities.
