In our ongoing exploration of the pillars of supremacy culture, we turn our focus to a particularly insidious aspect: diminished agency as a result of paternalism (you can read more on paternalism here). As a trauma-informed decolonization counselor and educator, I have observed the profound impact that a lack of autonomy can have on individuals and, by extension, on society as a whole. Let’s delve into how paternalism erodes personal agency and its ripple effects on interpersonal relationships and broader societal structures.
Paternalism, a deeply ingrained aspect of many social structures, operates on a fundamental imbalance of power. It manifests when a person or group, often in a position of authority, assumes the role of a 'paternal' figure in decision-making processes. This dynamic isn't limited to literal parental relationships; it extends to various spheres of life, including workplaces, educational institutions, and even governmental policies.
At the heart of paternalism lies the belief that the decision-maker, due to their perceived superiority in experience, knowledge, or authority, is better equipped to know what is best for others. While often originating from a place of genuine concern or a desire to help, this approach inadvertently disempowers those on the receiving end. It assumes a deficit in others’ ability to understand their needs or to make sound decisions, thereby justifying the control exerted over their choices.
This dynamic significantly impacts the individuals who are subject to such decisions. When people consistently experience that their opinions and choices are overridden or ignored, they may begin to question their ability to make competent decisions. This is particularly damaging if it occurs over an extended period, as it can lead to a chronic state of diminished agency. In such a scenario, individuals might find themselves defaulting to others’ judgments, reluctant to assert their viewpoints or make independent choices even in personal matters where they should have autonomy.
The repercussions of this erosion of confidence in one's decision-making capabilities are multifaceted. In a professional context, for instance, employees who are constantly subject to managerial paternalism may become passive, less innovative, and reluctant to take initiative. They might feel their contributions are undervalued, leading to decreased job satisfaction and a lack of engagement.
In personal and familial relationships, a similar dynamic can foster dependency and prevent the development of healthy, autonomous individuals. In a parental context, overprotective or controlling behaviors, though well-meaning, can impede children's ability to develop critical life skills, including risk assessment and independent decision-making. As these children grow into adults, they may struggle with self-reliance and face challenges in personal and professional relationships due to their conditioned response to defer to others’ decisions.
Moreover, on a societal level, paternalistic policies or cultural norms can reinforce power imbalances and perpetuate systemic inequalities. When certain groups are habitually denied agency — their voices and choices consistently disregarded — it not only upholds existing hierarchies but also hinders the collective progress towards a more equitable and democratic society.
Therefore, while the intentions behind paternalistic actions might be benign, the long-term effects are considerably less so. They propagate a cycle of dependency and disempowerment, affecting individual growth and perpetuating broader societal inequities. Recognizing and challenging paternalistic tendencies, both in ourselves and in the structures around us, is crucial for fostering a culture of empowerment, mutual respect, and equitable decision-making.
The Personal Toll of Diminished Agency
Impact on Self-Perception and Growth
When individuals repeatedly experience their choices being made for them, it can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and a sense of helplessness. This is particularly detrimental in developmental stages, where forming a sense of self and the ability to make independent decisions is crucial. Adults who have grown up under strong paternalistic influence may find it challenging to trust their judgment or assert their needs in various aspects of life.
The impact of repeated experiences where an individual's choices are made for them, characteristic of paternalistic environments, is profound and multifaceted, particularly regarding personal development and self-esteem. This dynamic can significantly affect an individual's psychological and emotional well-being.
Impact on Self-Esteem and Sense of Autonomy
When people, especially during formative years, are habitually subjected to decisions made for them, it can foster a deep-seated sense of helplessness and inadequacy. The continuous undermining of their choices implies that their opinions and desires are not valid or important. This message, whether explicit or implicit, can be internalized, leading to a decrease in self-esteem. The individual might start believing they are incapable of making good decisions or that their preferences are inconsequential.
Developmental Implications
During developmental stages, such as childhood and adolescence, establishing a sense of self and independence is a critical aspect of healthy psychological development. Paternalistic influences during these stages can disrupt this process. Children and teenagers need opportunities to make choices, experience the consequences, and learn from them. This is how they develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence in their abilities. However, in an environment where choices are consistently made for them, these developmental opportunities are significantly reduced, leaving them ill-equipped for adult decision-making.
Long-Term Effects into Adulthood
As these children transition into adulthood, the long-term effects of living under strong paternalistic influence can manifest in several ways. They may find it challenging to trust their judgment, constantly second-guessing themselves even in situations where they are fully capable of making sound decisions. This lack of trust in their own judgment can lead to over-reliance on others for decision-making in personal, professional, and social contexts.
Moreover, asserting one's needs and preferences becomes a challenge. Adults who have grown up in paternalistic settings often struggle to voice their needs or make demands. They might avoid confrontations or shy away from expressing dissent, as their early experiences taught them that their voices are likely to be disregarded or overruled. This can lead to unfulfilling relationships and careers, as they may continually compromise their needs and desires in favor of others' expectations or decisions.
Coping Mechanisms and Overcoming Challenges
Consequently, adults with this background may develop various coping mechanisms. Some might become excessively passive, avoiding taking charge in any aspect of their lives. Others might swing to the opposite extreme, becoming overly controlling in their environments as a reaction to their earlier experiences of disempowerment.
Overcoming these ingrained patterns requires conscious effort and, often, professional support. Therapy or counseling can be instrumental in helping individuals unpack these experiences and develop healthier decision-making patterns. Building self-esteem and autonomy involves practicing self-reflection, gradually taking on decision-making in safe environments, and learning to recognize and value one's own opinions and choices.
Conclusion
The pervasive influence of paternalism, especially during critical developmental stages, can shape an individual's personality and outlook on life in profound ways. Recognizing and addressing these impacts is crucial for anyone seeking to break free from the cycle of diminished agency and to foster a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy.
By understanding the detrimental effects of diminished agency and actively working to promote autonomy, we can create healthier, more equitable relationships and societies. Recognizing the signs of paternalism and taking steps to counteract its influence is crucial for personal growth and societal progress. Let’s commit to building environments where every individual’s voice is heard and valued, paving the way for a more inclusive and just world.
With love and care-
Desireé B Stephens