The Neuroscience of Misogyny

Misogyny isn’t “just” a social or cultural problem, but also a neuropsychological pattern, one that reflects how the brain encodes fear, bias, and dominance.

Here’s what happens beneath the surface:

1. Fear circuitry & threat perception

   
   

   When people hold sexist beliefs, studies show increased amygdala activation when confronted with women who defy traditional gender roles. The brain interprets equality or female authority as a threat to status or identity, triggering defensive reactions.

   
   

2. Reward and dominance networks

   
   

   In some cases, the striatum (involved in reward processing) activates when individuals exert dominance over women, especially in competitive contexts. The brain, conditioned by social hierarchies, rewards power imbalances.

   
   

3. Mirror neurons & empathy gaps

   Research shows reduced activation in mirror neuron systems when misogynistic individuals view women in pain or distress. This means lower empathic resonance—their brains literally “feel less” for women, reinforcing dehumanization.

   
   

4. Prefrontal cortex inhibition

   
   

   The prefrontal cortex, responsible for self-regulation and moral reasoning, can be overridden by emotional and implicit biases. This leads to impulsive, aggressive, or discriminatory behavior—even when consciously disapproved of.

   
   

Misogyny, then it’s wired in by experience.Cultural narratives, trauma, and learned dominance shape neural pathways over time.

The good news? Neuroplasticity means they can change.

Misogyny it’s neurologically learned. And what’s learned can be unlearned. :)

#misogyny #feminism #equity #patriarchy #neuroscience #psychology