Sunday, June 12, 2016

Reasons Women May Be Committed In The 1800s

In the late 1800s women were at the mercy of their husbands and families. "desertion by husband" "domestic trouble" and "marriage of son" are examples of inequality. In 1872 if a woman's husband had a mistress or if she had money, he could have her committed to an asylum. He could sign her in. He could leave her until he decided to come back and get her. Of course, many husbands let their wife die in the hospital. Women's health issues were also neglected. "Imaginary female trouble" was under the category of lunacy. "Suppression of menses" could be being pregnant out of wedlock, or an eating disorder or other illness. Women were considered the weaker sex. If they had a strong attitude, they may get in trouble and considered having "nymphomania" and "seduction and disappointment". These are reasons for admission. This reveals inequality and a poor understanding of mental health issues. The reasons one may be admitted also reveals a lot about society's attitudes.

2 comments:

  1. I can truly relate. I'm BP/Depression and had many psychotic episodes thinking the TV was talking to me or sending me personal messages. Then my kids and husband acted it out after I was diagnosed and i was so embarrassed and ashamed but couldn't show it.

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    Replies
    1. It is not your fault You should be able to talk to someone

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