Chapter 7, Womanhood and the Inner Space Summary and Analysis

A number of economic and practical reasons have led to more focus on woman's position in the world. Erikson thinks this is in part due to the threat of nuclear annihilation. He is also concerned that male 'emancipation' of woman has some darker elements and is not wholly sincere. One must explore the emotional reactions and resistances that block meaningful discussion. Feminists sometimes react strongly but many women react negatively and run back to old gender roles. Men are hesitant to respond. There are age-old psychological reasons for this.

For Erikson, the crucial stage of life where women achieve integrated female identity occurs when they leave the family. Adulthood begins with a capacity to receive and give love and care. Empathy and family are a central part of most feminine identities...