The Perverse Feminine Archetype: An Intuitive Inquiry

Abstract

Pathologizing women who express qualities that challenge the traditional archetypal feminine is a form of perversion that codifies internalized sexism in modern Western society. Specifically, the foundational myth crafted by monotheistic and dogmatic approaches to religion demonizes women who threaten long-standing sexist and patriarchal ideals. Qualities characterized by feminine evil such as sexual expression, autonomy, and assertive behavior are treated as feminine perversity expressed through the image of an evil woman. With this inherently negative portrayal, women learn to modify their identity through an expression of accepted traits and repression of others. According to Jungian theory, this form of repression is unconsciously stored as shadow material resulting in a disintegrated internal binary solidified by internalized sexism. For instance, if a woman internalizes messages that docility is a positive feminine trait, she might not form boundaries. The present research explores this dichotomy and aims to provide a potential for conscious recognition, integration, and transformation of the stifled psychic landscape. Although notable theoretical and psychotherapeutic possibilities exist, they remain influenced by archaic gender politics and leave a gap in a nonbinary approach to archetypal feminist psychology. Thus, the construction of a new theory that seeks to engage an alternative archetypal feminine figure can provide a possibility to heal internalized sexism. Through the Judaic Midrash representation of the Lilith image, this research illustrates how the perverse feminine archetype has appeared over time. A deeper exploration is engaged through an intuitive inquiry that explored how the archetype exists in the lives of 15 cisgender female participants. The inquiry evaluated experiences, beliefs, and stories that indicate how the archetype can serve to heal internalized sexism. Research findings reveal a possibility to achieve identity liberation through a four-stage process outlined by interviews which includes (a) societal indoctrination, (b) shapeshifting, (c) awareness, and (c) redefining womanhood. The results reveal potential for further research that can provide a framework to integrate the perverse feminine archetype and support women who struggle to heal internalized sexism.