Beyond the Superwoman Myth: Maternal Mental Health through a Cognitive-Behavioral Lens

Abstract

 The contemporary female experience is often shaped by unrealistic societal expectations, where women are expected to embody the “superwoman” role—excelling professionally, caring for family, and maintaining personal well-being simultaneously. This cultural idealization contributes to emotional exhaustion, anxiety, depression, and emotional dependence. This paper examines the intersection of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Intelligence, and self-care practices as strategies for addressing these challenges. Drawing on evidence-based research, the study highlights how CBT interventions dismantle cognitive distortions, while Emotional Intelligence fosters resilience, empathy, and adaptive decision-making. Findings suggest that integrating CBT and EI significantly improves women’s ability to manage anxiety, depression, and role overload, enabling them to set healthier boundaries and prioritize authentic self-care. The paper concludes by proposing an integrative model that dismantles the “superwoman” myth and reframes women’s mental health within a more compassionate and sustainable paradigm.