The Myths of Toxic Femininity

<p><em>A truly ground-breaking empowering book and an essential read for any woman who ever felt overwhelmed by the competing demands made on her by society; any woman who sought love and found only disappointment; any woman who doubted she was strong enough to pursue her dreams.</em></p><p><strong>Toxic Femininity</strong> is a misunderstood misused concept and this unique book explodes the myths which surround it. Drawing on twelve powerful stories of women around the world - their hopes dramas disappointments tragedies intimacies and successes - this book explains how the myths of toxic femininity trap women into trying to live up to impossible standards of perfection not for their well-being but to fit into male-dominated narratives. Rooted in centuries of patriarchal power toxic femininity pressures women to conform to limiting ideals leaving them at risk of being overwhelmed by shame depression self-doubt and helplessness. As these stories reveal toxic femininity can affect any woman - shaping her identity and reducing her agency. Yet these women's stories also offer hope showing the path to an agentic independent femininity and self-love.</p>