The concept of submission in relationships has evolved from historical interpretations to a more nuanced understanding of partnership, respect, and mutual support. So, what makes a woman submit to a man?

Let’s explore how trust, respect, and genuine connection create relationship dynamics where both partners feel secure and valued, leading to stronger and more fulfilling relationships.

Defining “Submission” in a Healthy Context

It’s important to clarify what we mean by “submission” in this context. We’re not talking about forced compliance, abuse, or any situation where a woman’s autonomy is violated. Instead, we’re exploring the dynamics where a woman might choose to yield to her partner’s preferences or decisions in specific instances. 

This can manifest in various ways, from agreeing on a date night activity to deferring to his expertise in a particular area. This kind of “submission” is often rooted in trust, respect, and a desire to maintain harmony within the relationship. It is a choice, not a requirement.

Romantic Couple Talking on the Sofa

What Makes a Woman Comfortable to Submit?

Here’s how to make your woman feel comfortable enough in her feminine to submit to you: 

Respect and Trust

A fundamental element in any healthy relationship, including those where one partner might sometimes “submit” to the other, is mutual respect. A woman is more likely to defer to a man she respects; someone she sees as intelligent, capable, and considerate of her feelings. 

This respect fosters trust, which is equally crucial. When a woman trusts her partner’s judgment and knows he has her best interests at heart, she’s more likely to be comfortable yielding to his preferences in certain situations.

Personality and Compatibility

Individual personalities play a significant role. Some women are naturally more agreeable and comfortable with a partner taking the lead, while others are more assertive. 

Compatibility is key here. A woman with a more submissive personality might find herself drawn to a man who is confident and decisive, while a more dominant woman might prefer an equally independent partner.

Communication and Understanding

Open and honest communication is essential. A woman is more likely to “submit” to a man who communicates clearly and respectfully. Both partners must understand each other’s needs and desires. 

This includes discussing expectations about decision-making, compromise, and personal boundaries. Without clear communication, misunderstandings can arise, leading to resentment and conflict.

Shared Values and Goals

Couples who share similar values and life goals are more likely to find a natural rhythm of give and take. When partners are aligned on fundamental issues, it becomes easier to navigate situations where one might “submit” to the other. This shared vision creates a sense of unity and purpose, making it easier to compromise and cooperate.

Factors That Influence Submission in Relationships

Some of the most notable factors that influence submission in relationships include: 

Traditional Gender Roles

Traditional gender roles have long dictated the expectations of behavior for men and women in relationships. In many cultures, men are often seen as the dominant figures while women are expected to be nurturing and submissive. 

Beautiful wife serving food to her husband in the kitchen

Women who hold traditional gender role beliefs are more likely to exhibit submissive behaviors, especially in situations where they perceive themselves as having less power than their male partners. This submission can manifest in several ways, including yielding during conflicts or deferring to their partner’s decisions.

The acceptance of these roles can lead to a cycle where women’s submission is reinforced by societal norms and expectations. For instance, studies show that women who believe they should submit are more likely to engage in submissive behaviors during marital conflicts, which can ultimately affect the quality of their relationships.

Power Dynamics

Power dynamics play a crucial role in the submission of women to men. In situations where women feel they lack power—such as during disagreements or conflicts—they may respond with submission as a means of maintaining harmony or avoiding confrontation. 

This behavior is often exacerbated by traditional beliefs about gender roles that suggest women should prioritize relationship harmony over personal assertiveness.

Research has demonstrated that when women perceive themselves as having lower power relative to their partners, they are more likely to engage in submissive behaviors like holding back their opinions or giving in during discussions. 

This tendency is particularly pronounced among those who subscribe to traditional gender roles. Lower power during marital interactions can predict submissive behavior in women, especially if they hold traditional gender role beliefs.

Psychological and Cultural Factors

Psychological factors also contribute significantly to why some women may choose to submit in relationships. Many women find comfort and security in traditional dynamics where a man takes charge. 

This can stem from deep-seated beliefs about masculinity and femininity that suggest men are natural leaders while women are more suited to supportive roles.

Cultural narratives around masculinity and femininity also shape perceptions of submission. In many societies, narratives glorifying male authority and female subservience persist, influencing individual beliefs about relationships. These influences can create an environment where submission is not just accepted but expected.

For instance, literature and media often portray romantic relationships where male dominance is romanticized, further embedding these ideas into societal norms. This cultural backdrop can make it challenging for individuals to navigate their desires and expectations outside these traditional frameworks.

Religious Perspectives

Religious beliefs significantly influence views on submission in marriage. Some interpretations of religious texts suggest that Christian women in a Christian marriage should submit to their Christian husbands. 

For example, 1 Corinthians 11:3 states, “The head of the woman is the man.” Some argue this verse indicates that women are generally in a place of submission to men. However, it’s crucial to understand that biblical submission within a marital relationship is not about inferiority. 

Ephesians 5:22-33 suggests wives should submit to their husbands because God has placed the husband in a role of authority. This submission is meant to be voluntary, not demanded. 

When a Christian wife willingly submits to her husband, she is also submitting to the Lord. This reflects the church body’s submission to Jesus Christ. This act is not about being less worthy but about embracing God’s mission for marriage. Mutual submission to Christ and one another is vital. 

It’s also important to note that biblical submission does not mean silence, nor does it mean that Christian women are not entitled to their own opinions. A Christian husband should love his wife as Christ loved the church. 

Note, however, that these principles might be more difficult to implement when married to a non-Christian husband. The concept of washing of water (Ephesians 5:26) symbolizes the cleansing and sanctifying influence of God’s word in the relationship, helping both partners grow in grace and understanding. 

The Role of Consent

It’s essential to differentiate between consensual submission within healthy relationship dynamics and coercive submission resulting from power imbalances or manipulation. 

In consensual dynamics—often explored within BDSM contexts—submission is based on mutual agreement and respect for boundaries. Here, the submissive partner willingly engages in behaviors that may appear subordinate but are part of a negotiated exchange of power that both parties find fulfilling.

This distinction underscores the importance of communication and consent in any relationship dynamic involving submission. Healthy relationships should prioritize both partners’ needs and desires rather than adhere strictly to traditional roles.

Potential Pitfalls of Submission

While submission can be a consensual dynamic, it also carries potential risks.

  • Suppression of Feelings: Twisted concepts of submission can cause women to suppress their feelings and bury their anger. They may also avoid confrontation, go out of their way to make everyone else happy, and take the blame when something goes wrong.
  • Loss of Identity: Women may give up their identity for other’s approval and be overly concerned about what others think. It can also cause women to deny reality and cover up evil.
  • Undermining Moral Development: Submitting without taking responsibility for one’s choices undermines moral development.
  • Emotional and Spiritual Bondage: Forced submission without addressing the inner complexities of the soul or the husband’s role in the marriage problems can lead to spiritual bondage.
  • Justifying Control: Submission can be twisted to create control, with manipulative partners training women to think that submission denies them the right to confront evil behavior.
  • Harmful Interpretations: Thinking submission means stopping all personal preferences, disregarding intelligent thoughts, and becoming a mindless doormat is a distortion.

It’s essential to address any harm that could arise from submissive responses and promote equality within the relationship. In many cases, blind submission is not only wrong but also damaging to both parties.

Wrapping Up

While some women may find comfort in submission due to societal conditioning or personal preference, it’s crucial for all individuals to engage in open dialogues about their desires and boundaries within their relationships.

Both partners must feel empowered to express themselves freely, whether through assertiveness or consensual submission. With that, relationships can thrive on mutual respect and understanding rather than outdated notions of dominance and subservience.

Also Read: What a Wife Needs From Her Husband: The Complete Guide