Why chivalry is problematic, even if women enjoy it

Women are being warned about the “problems” associated with men being chivalrous towards them.

A psychology lecturer Deakin University said acts such as holding a door open for a woman, or paying for a date, were rooted in benevolent sexism.

“The problem is the underlying attitude and the belief that men need to cherish and protect women and put them on a pedestal and that all comes together with this package, this belief, that women are weaker and less competent than men,” Dr Beatrice Alba said on 3AW Afternoons.

“That’s the underlying problem.”

Dee Dee Dunleavy asked Dr Alba whether some women in fact enjoyed those things being done for them.

“I would daresay, most, or at least a lot of women,” Dr Alba said in response.

“The research shows that it’s what women actually want from their partners and that they’re a little turned off if they don’t get those things.

“But the problem is that it is a little bit of an uncritical attitude.”

Press PLAY below to hear her explain why it’s problematic

Picture: Getty iStock