TRAD WIFE“ TREND U PATRIJARHALNOM DRUŠTVU: FEMINISTIČKA ANALIZA NJEGOVOG UTJECAJA NA ŽENSKU AUTONOMIJU U BRAKU
THE „TRAD WIFE“ TREND IN A PATRIARCHAL SOCIETY: A FEMINIST ANALYSIS OF ITS IMPACT ON WOMEN’S AUTONOMY IN MARRIAGE

Summary/Abstract: This paper analyzes feminist perspectives on marriage, examining its role both as a potential tool of the patriarchal system for controlling women and their lives, and as a possible space for achieving happiness, independence, and equality. Central questions include the feasibility of balancing marital and family responsibilities with a successful career, as well as adapting to the increasing demands of capitalist society, which often places a dual burden of labor and caregiving on women. Feminist discourse questions whether traditional forms of marriage can genuinely support gender equality or whether they remain deeply rooted in patterns that restrict women’s autonomy. Special attention is given to the growing “trad wife” trend, which, through social media and blogs, promotes an idealized image of a woman as a mother, homemaker, and devoted spouse committed to meeting her family’s needs. Feminist critiques argue that this trend perpetuates patriarchal stereotypes, romanticizes unequal power dynamics, and overlooks the real issues women face, such as economic dependency and domestic violence. Such narratives often obscure the serious problem of male violence against women and downplay the importance of women’s economic and social independence. Feminist theory advocates for women's autonomy and the right to choose—whether that choice involves marriage and family life or living outside those frameworks. It insists on redefining marriage as an equal partnership based on mutual respect, support, and personal growth, rather than on traditional hierarchical models that reinforce patriarchal values. Feminist discourse also highlights the need for systemic changes that would allow women to simultaneously pursue personal fulfillment and professional aspirations. The theoretical section of the paper draws on feminist analyses of the role of marriage within patriarchal structures, while the analytical section focuses on representations of women’s roles in social media content and popular digital narratives that promote the “trad wife” trend. The paper seeks to offer insights into how a balance between private and professional life can be achieved, and to what extent feminist ideals are attainable in the contemporary context of marriage.

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