Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 2, 2025

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Gendering of care and care inequalities in couple therapy
Olga Smoliak1, Carla Rice1, Andrea LaMarre2
1Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
Abstract:
Reciprocal partner or spousal caregiving in romantic relationships has been identified as a key determinant of the quality of couple relationships. In this article, we interrogate this premise concerning the presumed reciprocity of caregiving in romantic relationships, focusing on cisgender heterosexual relationships and offering implications for relationships of all genders and sexualities. Looking beyond the conventional focus on individual or dyadic processes, we theorize imbalances in care as gendered. Feminists have repeatedly critiqued gender ideology that devalues caring labor and allocates it to women. Gendered power dynamics can lead to imbalances in care-seeking and care provision. We discuss how the gendering of care and care inequalities can manifest in couple therapy, illustrating with examples from recorded interactions. Implications for therapy practice are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Couples Therapy
Core Principles and Techniques
Couples therapy often incorporates cognitive-behavioral principles to identify and modify negative...
Relationship Formation
Horney's Sociocultural Approach
Socioemotional Experience and Gender Development
Group Therapy
Psychosexual Theory of Development
The Five Stages of Psychosexual Development
Freud's psychosexual...

