In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional gender roles and lifestyles, particularly exemplified by the “trad wife” phenomenon, cue Nara Smith and Ballerina Farm. This movement romanticizes a return to traditional domestic roles for women, often portraying it as a path to fulfillment and happiness. However, while embracing traditional values is a personal choice, it’s essential to critically examine the dangers of idolizing the “trad wife” lifestyle.

First and foremost, the idea of a “trad wife” perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and restricts individual freedom. It suggests that a woman’s primary role is to be a homemaker, caretaker, and mother, prioritizing her husband and children above her own wants, needs, goals and dreams. While there is nothing inherently wrong with choosing to focus on family life, promoting this as the ideal for all women disregards their diverse talents, ambitions, and desires. Women should have the autonomy to pursue their goals and aspirations, whether they lie within or outside the traditional sphere of domesticity.

Furthermore, idolizing the “trad wife” lifestyle can foster a sense of inadequacy and guilt in women who do not conform to this ideal. It creates unrealistic expectations of perfection in homemaking and child-rearing, leading to feelings of failure and inadequacy when these standards are not met. This pressure to fit into a prescribed role can be damaging to women’s mental health and self-esteem, perpetuating a cycle of insecurity and self-doubt.

Moreover, the glorification of traditional gender roles undermines the progress that has been made towards gender equality. Women have fought long and hard for the right to pursue education, careers, and opportunities outside the home. Embracing the “trad wife” lifestyle as the ultimate goal can be seen as a regression, reinforcing the idea that women’s value lies solely in their domestic contributions rather than their intellect, skills, and talents.

Additionally, the “trad wife” narrative often romanticizes the past, overlooking the very real challenges and injustices faced by women in traditional societies. While some may long for a return to a perceived golden age of family values, it’s essential to recognize that traditional gender roles have historically been accompanied by inequality, oppression, and limited opportunities for women. Glorifying the past without acknowledging its flaws is not only misguided but also dangerous, as it risks erasing the struggles of generations of women who fought for greater equality and autonomy.

Regrettably, many women fail to anticipate the long-term implications of embracing the traditional wife role. Frequently, marriages end in dissolution, leaving traditional wives without income or financial assistance from their former husbands. Re-entering the workforce after years of being a stay-at-home mom poses significant challenges and adjustment difficulties.

In conclusion, while the “trad wife” lifestyle may appeal to some individuals, it’s crucial to approach it with a critical eye and an awareness of its potential pitfalls. Embracing traditional values should be a personal choice, not a societal expectation imposed on all women. Instead of idolizing one narrow definition of womanhood, we should celebrate the diversity of experiences, talents, and aspirations that women bring to the table. True empowerment comes from embracing choice, autonomy, and the freedom to define our own paths in life.