In her book, "The Dance of the Dissident Daughter," Sue Monk Kidd discusses the profound impact of societal expectations on women. She explains that many women internalize feelings of inferiority related to their femininity, which results in a lack of self-esteem and authority. This internalization can hinder their ability to embrace their identities and seek empowerment from within.

As a consequence, women often feel compelled to conform to patriarchal standards, striving to meet external expectations rather than cultivating their own sense of worth. This pursuit for validation can lead to a cycle of seeking approval rather than recognizing and nurturing their inherent strengths and authority.