10 things I hate about you, Gil Juger, and EQ Why must identity ignore societal expectations?

F. Ndayiragije’s article “The Impact of Social Expectations on Female Identity Development: A Psychological Perspective in Africa” looks at how society shapes the way girls and women form their sense of self. From childhood, girls are often directed into traditional roles that stress being obedient, modest, and caring. These expectations, rooted in culture, religion, and patriarchy, strongly influence how women see themselves, how they act, and how they feel. While these norms are deeply ingrained, they often come with psychological costs, such as feeling stuck in a limited identity, hiding emotions, and struggling with low self-esteem—especially during the teenage years. To address these challenges, the article calls for culturally aware mental health support, fairer education systems, and community programs that empower women to grow beyond restrictive roles.