Parenting styles and stigma make it difficult for women to open up about problems

Jakarta (ANTARA) -

Psychiatrist Dr. Elvine Gunawan, Sp.KJ, stated that women who grow up in environments with critical parenting styles, frequent blaming, or constant cornering tend to find it more difficult to open up when facing problems.

“If from a young age they are accustomed to being criticised or blamed, as adults they are more likely to withdraw and choose silence when there is a problem,” said Elvine when met after a discussion event commemorating Kartini Day in Jakarta on Tuesday.

According to her, this condition is related to feelings of insecurity and attachment patterns formed since childhood. When women feel their emotional responses are not accepted or are considered excessive, they can internalise that stigma.

She explained that stigma does not only come from the social environment but also develops into self-stigma, namely when women blame themselves for the conditions they experience.

Elvine added that the still-strong patriarchal culture also affects women’s courage to speak out. In some cases of sexual violence, victims choose silence for fear of being judged or even blamed.

According to her, education needs to start from home with an open and stigma-free approach. Parents need to discuss issues like menstruation, mental health, and personal boundaries honestly with their children, both girls and boys.

“When children feel heard and not judged, they will be more courageous in expressing what they feel,” she said.

She emphasised that building a safe and supportive environment is an important step to prevent women from continuing to bottle up problems that have the potential to impact long-term mental health.