Cinderella Complex: Theoretical Roots to Psychological Dependency Syndrome in Women

Abstract

Women’s dependency has been a widely debated topic around the world. Back in the 60s-80s, women were limited to their household chores, child rearing practices and were financially dependent on men, and the concept of women dependency on men was phenomenological and acceptable. But when 90s arrived with the drive of women empowerment; women education flourished, they became financially independent and balanced work and personal lives. The concept of women dependency then started confusion and displease among the “new independent women”. This theoretical article aims to elaborate on the concept of women dependence and its background. Cinderella Complex is a psychological syndrome that states women are unconsciously driven to be dependent on a dominant figure (preferably male). Relational Theory in relation to Cinderella complex marks distinction in emotional development of men and women. It states that women are primarily driven to connect with others.