For hundreds of years, women were subjected to numerous invasive, unethical, and sexist practices referred to as "female hysteria." Female hysteria was a medical diagnosis used to identify and treat women who exhibited symptoms of; cause problems, have erotic thoughts and irritability. This vintage metal sign was found in the basement of an antique shop among a pile of other retro signs. The phrase; “Oh, I'm sorry. You're probably confusing me with the waitress we don't have. ” would not have been tolerated eighty years ago and would have led to serious consequences, such as institutionalization. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay At first glance, it appeared to be an innocent comedic sign, however, once analyzed, it was evident that there was a much deeper message. The question that came to mind after further analysis was; “How did this immoral and outrageous social institution convince not only society, but women, that it was acceptable for someone to dictate and violate a woman's mind and body?” For a long time, women were conditioned to think that institutionalized sexism was normal and that it was normal to grow up believing that they deserved to be treated subservient to men. Perhaps these diagnoses are not only a reflection of women's health, but also a reflection of society's labeling of feminine characteristics, or the result of institutionalized sexism (William et al, p#382). Furthermore, over time it has been a trend to make up stories to explain female characteristics. The history of female hysteria can be traced back to 1900 BC, when women were diagnosed with “wandering womb,” or the belief that a displaced uterus could cause psychological and physical illness in women. Fast forward to the 17th century, where hysteria was commonly associated with demonic possession. During the 19th century, when female hysteria was classified as a neurological disorder and not a physical one, the cure for the disease was “pelvic massage.” Women were often diagnosed with hysteria and required to visit a doctor for treatment, to induce hysterical paroxysm. After male doctors began complaining of tiredness and wrist pain due to this form of “necessary” treatment, the medical association introduced a vibration tool to assist in treatment and relieve doctors of their “misery ”. It was not until the 20th century that female hysteria was considered a generic diagnosis and was no longer recognized as a disease in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Furthermore, treatments for hysteria over time reached the point of physically harming women. . Doctors performed ovioratomies, hysterectomies, and clitoridectomies, for the sole purpose of treating a woman's hysteria. One of the main solutions to this problem has been feminism. The first wave of feminism took place in the 19th and early 20th centuries, when women fought for the right to vote, so they no longer had to be subservient to the rules of men. The second wave of feminism, from the early 1960s to the late 1970s, consisted of women fighting for their freedom, control over their lives, and equal opportunities. One of the main reasons why the idea of ​​female hysteria was abandoned was because of the feminist movements that took place over the centuries. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom EssayIn In conclusion, women.