Why women compete against other women, and how?
"Woman against woman" often refers to the intricate world of female competition, in which women are at odds or competing with one another. In this article we explore the reasons and manifestations of such behaviour in various contexts; From workplace struggles to family jealousy passing by romantic rivalries.
Why Do Women Compete with Each Other
When resources, opportunity, or recognition are scarce, women may find themselves competing with one another, resulting in strained relationships.
Academic or professional achievements: Women may compete for recognition, grades, or opportunities in academic or intellectual contexts. In workplace environment, professional Settings and career path particularly in male-dominated professions, can encourage competition among women for professional progression or responsibilities; Women may fight for promotions, recognition, or leadership roles. Organisational structures, gender prejudices, and limited chances can all have an impact on competition.
Romantic Relationships: Competition for romantic partners can take many forms, ranging from subtle competition to overt actions. Beauty standards and expectations in society can have an impact on this
Misplaced sense of value: For example, differences in parenting styles can often lead to competition among moms, with each feeling the need to prove that their parenting approaches is superior.
Internalised Misogyny: Perpetuating Cycle of sexual Shame, women may unintentionally contribute to conflict by internalising cultural biases against their own gender. This can lead to judgement, competition, or even animosity against other women.
Broken self-esteem: Bad influences might lead women to create false personas and engage in (sexual) behaviours that do not actually serve them- or on the opposite can push women to emit judgement and belittle the ones daring to challenge social norms.
Social expectations and cultural norms can promote competitiveness among women, especially when complying to specific standards is viewed as necessary for success or acceptance.
How do woman compete with each other?
Women, like individuals of any gender, can compete with one another in a variety of ways. It is crucial to highlight that these behaviours are not restricted to women and can be observed in people of any gender. Here are some examples of how women might compete:
Social Comparison: Women may compare their appearance, achievements, relationships, or societal expectations to those of others. This can result in emotions of inadequacy as well as competitiveness for perceived social position.
Personal connections: including friendships and familial bonds, may face tension as a result of cultural expectations, need for attention, jealously, or competition.
Reputation destruction the exposure of private life or sexual life is seen as an efficient, easy and quick way to cancel someone on emotional impulse or based on social/ religious judgements.
Society's beauty standards may lead to competition based on physical attractiveness, fashion choices, or body image.
Social Media Influence: There may be competition for attention, likes, or followers. Women's self-esteem may suffer as a result of comparing their life to the highlight reels of others.
Conclusion
Toxic modern culture encourages women to create a solid, own self-worth by criticising or being condescending toward other women. Such behaviour ultimately rewards fragile masculinity and fake femininity; A misplaced sense of value when women ‘ compete’ for male validation or social acceptation.
This type of woman-against-woman behaviour is in many aspects, the other side of the "pick me" coin: Another way of focusing on woman physical appearance and disregarding their humanity. A low-vibrational behaviour blaming the victim and contributing more to the problem than to the solution.
Addressing "woman against woman" dynamics entails creating supportive surroundings, challenging societal norms, and encouraging female solidarity. Building strong connections among women requires encouraging open communication, praising each other's triumphs, and breaking down biased mindset.