ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the value of intellect and power in the context of women’s leadership. Richards looks at women’s leadership through the lens of ancient myth. Inanna is a role model who negotiates gender dilemmas without fear and with a clear vision of her own power, and her right to its access. Psychoanalytic stereotypes of women and gender that proliferated in the early history of the profession focused mainly on the value of motherhood, rather than career. The case of Claire is an example of an individual whose actions, personally and professionally, appear to be “contrary” to the social norms that reflect stereotypes and bias. She does not always feel she has the right to her power. How Claire, and all women, must navigate the sociopolitical culture within which they aspire to career goals requires independence of mind, and a willingness to bear shame and conflict. Without obvious role models, the integration of difference, and the development of identity, will require ongoing therapeutic support that includes different ideas regarding women’s leadership aims: definition of role and responsibilities, and insights into her family dynamics and the workplace goals.
