Gender Issues

1. Gender-sensitive training: Women’s organizations argue that gender-sensitive training should be required for counselors since their otherwise impartial positions frequently wind up being biased against women due to ingrained patriarchal prejudices.

2. Not clearly defined framework: In order to avoid gender biases in the process of carrying out the statutory mandate of “protecting and preserving” the family and “speedy settlement,” women’s groups have demanded clearly defined frameworks for gender justice in the operation of the family courts. This is especially true with regard to the role of counselors.

3. Forced reconciliation on women: Some counselors force women to reconcile and return to the marital home in order to fulfill the “reconciliation” mandate, ignoring the human dignity, physical safety, and economic rights of women in the process.

4. Unfair legal tricks used by counselors: Counselors and attorneys have consistently and successfully pursued reconciliation in cases where women have been physically abused, ejected from their marital homes, and have requested maintenance (under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code). It is contended that this is a legal ploy designed to weaken the woman’s claim to maintenance. As a precaution, Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure mandates maintenance for mothers and children who have been neglected.

5. Ignoring of gender justice: The fact that the fundamental tenet of “gender justice,” the main goal of the women’s movement, is ignored is one of the main complaints leveled by women’s organizations against the Family Courts Act and the family justice system in general.

6. Forcing family preservation: The Family Courts Act prioritizes the “preservation of the family” through prompt and efficient conciliation. Women’s organizations have consistently argued that “gender justice” and “women’s rights” are not synonymous with “family preservation.”

Counselors can play a vital role in supporting individuals with a wide range of gender-related concerns. Counselors are trained to be culturally competent and understand the spectrum of gender identities and expressions. This goes beyond the binary of male and female. They can help clients explore their gender identity in a safe and supportive space, free from judgment. In certain places, like Maharashtra, counselors are very important in fostering discussions and agreements.

Key Takeaways:

• Counselors can help clients who struggle with societal pressures around gender roles.
• This could be anything from body image issues to navigating careers that don’t conform to traditional expectations.
• Counselors can empower clients to challenge stereotypes and make choices that reflect their individuality.
• It’s crucial for counselors to be aware of their own biases related to gender. This allows them to provide fair and effective support to all clients.
• Counselors can be a valuable resource for anyone dealing with gender-related challenges. Their role is to provide a safe space for exploration, acceptance, and personal growth.