Russian women are dependent, shy, reserved

Two myths about women of the former Soviet Union:

1) Russian women are not interested in a career but dream to be housewives.

2) Russian women are dependent, shy, reserved and don't want to work; you will have to feed a Russian wife for the rest of your life.

Please remember that not all of these ladies are the same.

Their interest in career making depends mostly upon the woman's past. If she has a good education and has a challenging job in Russia, she will probably get fed up of staying at home after 3 to 4 months, even if she will enjoy it in the beginning.

For the majority of women in Russia being a housewife is a kind of unaffordable luxury. The economic situation pushes women to work to provide for their families. No wonder, it's considered a sign of well being when a wife can stay at home. The social status of a housewife is high in Russia.

At the same time, in Russia, it's much more difficult for a woman to have a career than for a man. If looking for employment in Russian newspapers you would notice that 90% of the ads appeal only to male candidates. Qualifying the gender as a requirement for a position is not considered to be a discrimination.

Women are paid less, and have fewer career opportunities. Salaries in Russia are pretty small, and even a successful career doesn't guarantee good living standards.

All the factors together may explain why Russian women are not as interested in careers as their Western sisters. Family life gives Russian women much more satisfaction and joy.

They probably would be happy "to make a career" but never had a chance. If one considers the word "career" in its Western meaning, that is, a high employment position in a stable company, high salary providing high living standards, status and respect. If you never had a chance to try caviar, how can you say if you like it or not?

Even if a woman has reached a high position, she will never be considered as an equal due to predominant men's chauvinism. She will have to prove every day that she is not a "chicken". A famous old Russian proverb, "A chicken is not a bird; a woman is not a human being.

Making a career in Russia is what a reasonable person would not bother to do. There is no satisfaction of money nor respect. So Russian women look at a "career" more as a job.

Generally, Russian women are used to working. I believe, they like to work. They may be excited by the idea to become a housewife and dedicate themselves to their family, but will be able to provide for the family if they need.

Arriving in a strange country, a Russian woman is at a disadvantage such as the language barrier. The first few month she definitely won't be working but staying at home.

She must get used to a different life style, customs and rules. She is not aware if her knowledge and skills are worth anything. When she realizes what she can get having a good job, and is able to get this job - well, you may be surprised.

Above was written by Elena Petrova