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“What Will People Say?”: The Role of Shame and Honor in Policing Women’s Emotions
In many South Asian households, decisions aren’t just about what’s right or wrong — they’re about what people will think. That five-word question, “What will people say?” isn’t just a phrase. It’s a rule. A threat. A leash. And when it comes to women, it’s one of the strongest tools used to control their emotions, behavior, and autonomy. Because for South Asian women, it’s never just about how they feel — it’s about how their feelings reflect on their family’s izzat (honor). Izzat Culture: Where Reputation Trumps Reality The concept of izzat is deeply woven into South Asian cultures — from India and Pakistan to Bangladesh, Nepal, and even diaspora…
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Beyond “Log Kya Kahenge?”: Prioritizing Mental Health Over Social Image
South Asian Mental Health • Cultural Shame • Social Pressure • Individual Healing • Generational Expectations 🧠 “They’d rather I suffer silently than bring shame to the family name.” The phrase “Log kya kahenge?” — What will people say? — is more than a rhetorical question in South Asian households. It’s a weapon of silence, a suppressor of mental health conversations, and a mask that forces many to wear a brave face while they break inside. 📊 Bar Chart: Impact of “Log Kya Kahenge?” on Mental Health Top 5 Mental Health Struggles Linked to Social Image Pressure (2024 Survey) 🔍 What Does It Mean to Prioritize Social Image? In many…