The Nervous Housewife By: Abraham Myerson (1881-1948)
In "The Nervous Housewife," Abraham Myerson delves into the intricate world of neuroses that plague many women of the early 20th century. With a keen understanding of psychology, Myerson sheds light on the challenges faced by these women as they navigate the demanding role of a housewife in an era where societal expectations weighed heavily on their shoulders. The book is divided into different sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of the nervous housewife's experience. Myerson presents a comprehensive examination of the causes of neuroses, ranging from societal pressures to the challenges of managing a household and raising children. Through numerous case studies, he skillfully captures the essence of each woman's struggle, delving into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. One of the most striking aspects of Myerson's writing is his ability to offer practical solutions to the problems faced by nervous housewives. He doesn't merely diagnose the issue, but also provides guidance on how to address and overcome these challenges. His approach is empathetic, understanding that the path to recovery requires a combination of emotional support, education, and practical strategies. Furthermore, Myerson's exploration of the cultural context surrounding nervous housewives is both enlightening and thought-provoking. He delves into the societal expectations placed on women during this time, highlighting the immense pressure to conform to unrealistic standards of femininity and domestic perfection. This analysis allows readers to comprehend the multitude of factors contributing to the development of neuroses, transforming the book into a reflection on gender roles and societal expectations. The author's writing style is engaging and accessible. He presents complex psychological concepts in a clear manner, making the book suitable for both professional psychologists and general readers interested in the topic. Myerson's inclusion of case studies adds a personal touch to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the experiences of the women he discusses. "The Nervous Housewife" is a significant contribution to the field of mental health literature. Myerson's compassionate and insightful exploration of the challenges faced by 20th-century housewives resonates with readers even today, as women continue to navigate societal expectations and strive for balance in their lives. This book stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of understanding and addressing mental health issues faced by women in particular, earning its place as a must-read for those interested in women's studies, psychology, and the history of gender roles. First Page: THE NERVOUS HOUSEWIFE BY ABRAHAM MYERSON, M.D. BOSTON LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY 1920 Published November, 1920 Norwood Press Set up and electrotyped by J.S. Cushing Co. Norwood, Mass., U.S.A. CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE I INTRODUCTORY 1 II THE NATURE OF "NERVOUSNESS" 17 III TYPES OF HOUSEWIFE PREDISPOSED TO NERVOUSNESS 46 IV THE HOUSEWORK AND THE HOME AS FACTORS IN THE NEUROSIS 74 V REACTION TO THE DISAGREEABLE 91 VI POVERTY AND ITS PSYCHICAL RESULTS 116 VII THE HOUSEWIFE AND HER HUSBAND 126 VIII THE HOUSEWIFE AND HER HOUSEHOLD CONFLICTS 141 IX THE SYMPTOMS AS WEAPONS AGAINST THE HUSBAND 160 X HISTORIES OF SOME SEVERE CASES 168 XI OTHER TYPICAL CASES 199 XII TREATMENT OF THE INDIVIDUAL CASES 231 XIII THE FUTURE OF WOMAN, THE HOME, AND MARRIAGE 244 INDEX 269 CHAPTER I INTRODUCTORY How old is the problem of the Nervous Housewife? Did the semi mythical Cave Man (who is perhaps only a pseudo scientific creation) on his return from a prehistoric hunt find his leafy spouse all in tears over her staglocythic house cleaning, or the conduct of the youngest cave child? Did she complain of her back, did she have a headache every time they disagreed, did she fuss and fret until he lost his patience and dashed madly out to the Cave Man's Refuge? We cannot tell; we only know that all humor aside, and without reference to the past, the Nervous Housewife is surely a phenomenon of the present day American home... Continue reading book >>

The Nervous Housewife By: Abraham Myerson (1881-1948)

In "The Nervous Housewife," Abraham Myerson delves into the intricate world of neuroses that plague many women of the early 20th century. With a keen understanding of psychology, Myerson sheds light on the challenges faced by these women as they navigate the demanding role of a housewife in an era where societal expectations weighed heavily on their shoulders.

The book is divided into different sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of the nervous housewife's experience. Myerson presents a comprehensive examination of the causes of neuroses, ranging from societal pressures to the challenges of managing a household and raising children. Through numerous case studies, he skillfully captures the essence of each woman's struggle, delving into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

One of the most striking aspects of Myerson's writing is his ability to offer practical solutions to the problems faced by nervous housewives. He doesn't merely diagnose the issue, but also provides guidance on how to address and overcome these challenges. His approach is empathetic, understanding that the path to recovery requires a combination of emotional support, education, and practical strategies.

Furthermore, Myerson's exploration of the cultural context surrounding nervous housewives is both enlightening and thought-provoking. He delves into the societal expectations placed on women during this time, highlighting the immense pressure to conform to unrealistic standards of femininity and domestic perfection. This analysis allows readers to comprehend the multitude of factors contributing to the development of neuroses, transforming the book into a reflection on gender roles and societal expectations.

The author's writing style is engaging and accessible. He presents complex psychological concepts in a clear manner, making the book suitable for both professional psychologists and general readers interested in the topic. Myerson's inclusion of case studies adds a personal touch to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the experiences of the women he discusses.

"The Nervous Housewife" is a significant contribution to the field of mental health literature. Myerson's compassionate and insightful exploration of the challenges faced by 20th-century housewives resonates with readers even today, as women continue to navigate societal expectations and strive for balance in their lives. This book stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of understanding and addressing mental health issues faced by women in particular, earning its place as a must-read for those interested in women's studies, psychology, and the history of gender roles.

First Page:

THE NERVOUS HOUSEWIFE

ABRAHAM MYERSON, M.D.

BOSTON

LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY

1920

Published November, 1920

Norwood Press

Set up and electrotyped by J.S. Cushing Co.

Norwood, Mass., U.S.A.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE I INTRODUCTORY 1 II THE NATURE OF "NERVOUSNESS" 17 III TYPES OF HOUSEWIFE PREDISPOSED TO NERVOUSNESS 46 IV THE HOUSEWORK AND THE HOME AS FACTORS IN THE NEUROSIS 74 V REACTION TO THE DISAGREEABLE 91 VI POVERTY AND ITS PSYCHICAL RESULTS 116 VII THE HOUSEWIFE AND HER HUSBAND 126 VIII THE HOUSEWIFE AND HER HOUSEHOLD CONFLICTS 141 IX THE SYMPTOMS AS WEAPONS AGAINST THE HUSBAND 160 X HISTORIES OF SOME SEVERE CASES 168 XI OTHER TYPICAL CASES 199 XII TREATMENT OF THE INDIVIDUAL CASES 231 XIII THE FUTURE OF WOMAN, THE HOME, AND MARRIAGE 244 INDEX 269

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTORY

How old is the problem of the Nervous Housewife?

Did the semi mythical Cave Man (who is perhaps only a pseudo scientific creation) on his return from a prehistoric hunt find his leafy spouse all in tears over her staglocythic house cleaning, or the conduct of the youngest cave child? Did she complain of her back, did she have a headache every time they disagreed, did she fuss and fret until he lost his patience and dashed madly out to the Cave Man's Refuge?

We cannot tell; we only know that all humor aside, and without reference to the past, the Nervous Housewife is surely a phenomenon of the present day American home... Continue reading book >>

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