How to Handle a Male Chauvinist Husband: 27 Practical Ways

Living with a male chauvinist husband can feel confusing, exhausting, and quietly painful… especially when your feelings are brushed aside or your efforts go unseen. Some days you may question yourself, other days you may feel angry, hurt, or just tired of explaining the same things again. 

Love can still exist, even when respect feels uneven, and that inner conflict is heavy to carry. Learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband is not about fighting every battle or proving your worth; it’s about protecting your emotional space while finding steadier ground. 

With patience, clarity, and self-trust, change can begin in small, meaningful ways… even when it feels slow.

What does a male chauvinistic husband mean?

A male chauvinist husband is one who believes that men are in some way superior to women. The person has nothing to substantiate this feeling, no reliable evidence or proof.

But the spouse will do and say things indicating where he feels the mate’s place is within the household and outside the home.

Example: Imagine you ask your spouse for help with planning a family event, but he insists it’s “women’s work,” or dismisses your ideas as unimportant—saying things like “Don’t worry, I’ll handle it.”

That’s a real-life insight into how to handle a male chauvinist husband, because it reflects an unequal mindset that affects daily interactions and emotional balance.

Please note:

Remember that these attitudes are learned and not a fixed destiny; awareness and honest conversations, sometimes guided by trusted friends or professionals, can open doors to more respectful patterns over time.

What is the difference between male chauvinism and patriarchy?

Male chauvinism and patriarchy are often confused, but they are not the same. One reflects individual beliefs about male superiority, while the other is a larger social system that shapes power, roles, and opportunities for men and women.

4 main characteristics of a male chauvinist husband

Understanding the traits of a male chauvinist husband can help you recognize unhealthy patterns without blaming yourself. 

These behaviors often show up subtly, wrapped in “tradition” or “concern,” yet they slowly affect confidence, communication, and emotional safety within the relationship.

1. He believes his opinions matter more

A male chauvinist husband often assumes his views are more logical or important. He may interrupt, dismiss, or override your thoughts during discussions. Decisions tend to feel one-sided. Over time, this creates emotional distance. Respect feels conditional rather than mutual.

• Example: He finalizes family plans without asking, then says, “I know what’s best.”

2. He enforces rigid gender roles

A chauvinist husband strongly believes men and women have fixed roles. He may expect you to manage the home regardless of your workload. Flexibility feels threatening to him. Equality is framed as rebellion. These beliefs limit growth for both partners.

• Example: He says household chores are “naturally a woman’s responsibility.”

3. He minimizes your achievements

He may downplay your success or credit it to luck or help from others. Compliments are rare and conditional. This slowly erodes self-esteem. Your efforts feel invisible. Appreciation becomes unbalanced.

• Example: He responds to your promotion with, “Anyone could do that job.”

4. He resists accountability and change

When confronted, he becomes defensive instead of reflective. Blame is shifted back onto you. Apologies feel forced or absent. Growth conversations turn into arguments. This makes how to handle a male chauvinist husband emotionally exhausting.

• Example: He says, “You’re too sensitive,” instead of addressing the issue.

11 glaring signs you have a chauvinistic husband

When you consider what male chauvinism is, men don’t always display the behavior upfront and center, especially if they’re newly married. 

Once things have become familiar and comfortable, there’s a feeling that the guards can be let down and shared more openly, rather than the subtle hints he’s been displaying. Let’s look at some signs of a male chauvinist to be mindful of.

1. You’re constantly interrupted in conversations 

This is among the classic male chauvinist examples. You listen patiently to his conversation, but when it’s your turn, he always finds a reason to interrupt as though your experiences and thoughts are irrelevant.

2. He’s continually validating himself as a nice guy.

 If he is complaining that he’s a nice guy and that many mates are not appreciative when they have a good thing that treats them well, that can be toxic. Continuing to announce it doesn’t mean you’re nice.

3. Periods are fodder for his humor

Using PMS as a reason women must be in bad humor is not funny and makes the guy look like he doesn’t respect women.

4. Earning more than him bothers him

While he supports your career, he places a great deal of importance on gender roles, so when he finds out you’re earning more, it doesn’t make him happy.

5. “Benevolent sexists!” 

This male chauvinist example is a man who will rush to help, but their help comes across as more degrading to their partner than a genuine willingness to care for a problem.

As Dr. Jennifer Jacobsen, PhD in Psychology, explains:

A man with chauvinistic traits will jump in to help, and he will treat you as if you are incapable of functioning without his assistance.

6. Mansplaining

 A very common one among the signs of a chauvinistic man! Explaining things to a partner in a “mansplaining” context is simply another way of showing power and further degrading a mate, acting as though they can’t comprehend logistics.

7. Compliments are reserved for looks

Instead of complimenting abilities with hobbies, interests, skills, or even careers, the chauvinist will concentrate on the way you look.

8. He doesn’t like your male friends

He could be jealous, but it’s most often sexist in that he’s afraid that you’ll chat with one of your friends or that one of them will steal you away from him.

9. He has a set of ideas concerning what denotes a real woman

If you want children, he will find that you’re the epitome of a real woman. If you have friends who choose not to get married, they don’t fall under the category. 

10. If you want to discuss women role of in society today, he has no interest

There’s no desire on his part to discuss feminism or issues being faced by women in society today.

11. He seeks financial control

He insists on controlling the finances, making it difficult for you to have any financial independence.

Dr. Jacobsen warns:

In some cases, this can be part of the cycle of an abusive relationship.” She adds that if you have no financial independence, it makes it difficult for you to leave an abusive relationship.

27 practical ways to handle a male chauvinistic husband

When trying to discern how to deal with a male chauvinist husband, challenging a chauvinist’s beliefs and behavior can sometimes make the person anxious. 

But discuss improvements they could make to help you figure out how to deal with a male chauvinist.

1. Discuss your feelings openly and vulnerably

The first step in how to handle a male chauvinist husband is to have honest and open communication. Instead of brushing off a “how was your day?” question with a simple “fine,” share your true feelings and experiences. 

This allows your partner to understand what you’re going through and how his actions may affect you.

• Why it helps: Holding a meaningful conversation, where both of you genuinely listen and respond, can help break down barriers in understanding and promote a more empathetic connection. This open dialogue is crucial in figuring out how to handle a male chauvinist husband effectively.

2. Avoid interruptions

Male chauvinists often interrupt their partner mid-story, which can feel degrading and show a lack of respect. If this is an issue, it’s essential to express to your husband how these interruptions make you feel and why they are hurtful.

• Why it helps: Let him know that cutting you off in conversations diminishes the value of your thoughts and experiences. Working on this issue together is a key part of learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband and fostering mutual respect in your relationship.

3. Let him know he doesn’t need to solve all your problems

When you’re sharing issues—whether it’s stress at work, family troubles, or anything else—you might simply want an empathetic ear rather than a solution. Often, a male chauvinist husband might feel he needs to step in and “fix” things.

It’s helpful to let him know that his support means more when he listens rather than trying to solve everything. 

• Why it helps: There are times when a defense or a solution is necessary, but, generally, your emotional comfort takes priority, which is an important distinction in learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband.

4. Ask him to help when you genuinely could use it

Many people struggle with how to handle a male chauvinist husband who often “rescues” them from tasks he deems too challenging. While his intentions might seem helpful, they can sometimes come across as belittling, making you feel incapable.

Instead, communicate clearly about tasks where his help would be genuinely appreciated—such as chores you dislike or find physically difficult. 

• Why it helps: This way, you can work as a team, promoting a balance where both of you feel respected and supported.

5. Ask him to be kind to your friends

It’s important for your husband to understand and respect the value of your friendships, whether they are with men or women. If you trust your friends, he should as well, and he should aim to fit in with them because they are part of your life.

Openly addressing any tension or lack of effort on his part can help create a healthier dynamic. 

• Why it helps: Mutual respect and kindness are crucial aspects of learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband and maintaining a balanced relationship.

6. If something exciting happens in his life, he should share that

A male chauvinist husband might tend to withhold significant moments due to a feeling of superiority or the belief that his achievements are solely his to celebrate. This creates an emotional divide in your relationship.

Encourage him to share both his victories and struggles with you. 

• Why it helps: This inclusion not only strengthens your bond but also ensures that you are both equally involved in each other’s lives, which is fundamental when figuring out how to handle a male chauvinist husband.

7. Compliments outside of superficial

It’s easy for a male chauvinist husband to only offer compliments about appearances, but to foster a genuine connection, it’s crucial that he acknowledges your accomplishments. Express the importance of being valued for your abilities, whether related to your career, hobbies, or personal achievements.

Let him know that true compliments extend beyond physical looks; they involve recognizing your hard work and successes. 

• Why it helps: Emphasizing this will help in addressing how to handle a male chauvinist husband and in ensuring that he values every part of who you are.

8. Encourage your husband to write his grievances before having a conflict

Finding ways to manage conflicts with a male chauvinist husband can be challenging, especially when emotions are running high. One effective approach is to encourage him to write down his grievances before initiating a discussion.

This practice can help him articulate what’s truly bothering him and allow him to express himself more calmly. 

• Why it helps: Writing things down can also provide both of you with a chance to consider each other’s feelings more thoughtfully, which is a useful technique when figuring out how to handle a male chauvinist husband during tough conversations.

9. Decisions should be mutual

If your spouse specifically asks you to order for them at dinner, that’s one thing. However, if you take it upon yourself without their input, it can be a clear sign of male chauvinism. 

Mutual decision-making is key in figuring out how to handle a male chauvinist husband, especially in everyday situations like ordering food or making plans. Make sure household decisions are also made together unless you have explicitly agreed otherwise. 

• Why it helps:This balance ensures both partners feel respected and valued, which is essential when learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband effectively.

10. Limit the kind of energy he brings home

A crucial method for how to handle a male chauvinist husband is to set boundaries about the kind of energy brought home. If your husband is in a bad mood, it’s better for him to take some time alone rather than projecting that negativity onto others.

Encourage him to find a moment of quiet reprieve until the stress passes, as no one should be exposed to unnecessary irritability. 

• Why it helps: Establishing this habit will make the home a more peaceful place for both of you, even when emotions run high.

11. Let him acknowledge an attribute or accomplishment about you in public

It can be challenging for a male chauvinist husband to openly support or praise his partner, but this is an important step in overcoming chauvinistic tendencies. Encourage him to be one of your biggest supporters, at least for an evening, to show that he values you.

• Why it helps: Even if it feels uncomfortable for him to hear people praising you, it’s a necessary part of growth. Learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband involves fostering public acknowledgment of each other’s achievements and building mutual respect.

12. No imbalances in household labor

The mental work of managing a household often falls on one person, which can lead to overwhelming stress and burnout. If your male chauvinist husband is not contributing his fair share, it’s important to discuss this imbalance openly.

A fair division of household responsibilities ensures that neither partner feels undervalued. 

• Why it helps: When both of you can rely on each other for support, it helps in figuring out how to handle a male chauvinist husband and creates a more equal partnership.

13. Family squabbles

During disputes with family or friends, a male chauvinist husband may be inclined to criticize you rather than offer support. It’s vital to communicate how important it is for you to feel that he’s on your side in these situations.

Let him know that being on the same page strengthens your bond and helps you feel more secure. 

• Why it helps: When figuring out how to handle a male chauvinist husband, showing unity during external conflicts is crucial for building trust and mutual understanding.

14. The benefit of the doubt

A male chauvinist husband might be skeptical of what you tell him, but it’s important to express the need for him to give you the benefit of the doubt. Trust is a fundamental part of any relationship, and you both need to work on building it.

While this may be challenging for someone with ingrained behaviors, reminding him of the importance of trust is a key part of learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband. 

• Why it helps: This helps lay the groundwork for a healthier, more supportive partnership.

15. Deep breaths and walking away

Frustration is inevitable when dealing with a male chauvinist, but learning how to manage these moments is crucial. When arguments start to escalate, taking a few deep breaths and walking away can prevent things from spiraling out of control.

Understanding how to handle a male chauvinist husband includes knowing when to create distance to prevent conflicts from getting out of hand.

• Why it helps: Whether it means stepping into another room or going for a walk, giving yourself space can help clear your mind and defuse tension. 

16. Try to let go of unreasonable expectations

It’s easy to believe you can completely change someone, but that’s often unrealistic. Instead, focus on making personal improvements and communicating openly to find reasonable ways to improve the relationship.

Both partners need to be committed to working toward a healthier outcome, and this applies to learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband as well. 

• Why it helps: Remember that loving someone means accepting them, even on days when you may not like them very much.

17. Say no to sexist behavior

If you experience sexism at work, don’t let your male chauvinist husband defend the person responsible or dismiss your feelings. It’s important for him to stand by you and take your concerns seriously.

Encourage him to help you work through the problem, whether that means listening to you vent or taking concrete steps to resolve the issue.

• Why it helps: One of the key methods for how to handle a male chauvinist husband is ensuring that he is your partner and advocate, not someone who excuses or downplays harmful behavior.

18. Work toward developing a united front

It can be tough to stay positive, especially if you’re figuring out how to handle a male chauvinist husband who often sees the negative in every situation. This kind of negativity can be contagious, making it easy to fall into the same mindset.

Instead, focus on working with your partner to develop a united front. Approach challenges together and aim to find solutions that satisfy both of you.

• Why it helps: This sense of teamwork can help change the dynamic and make dealing with negativity easier.

19. Teach him to use “I” terms with confrontation

Male chauvinists tend to use “you” statements during confrontations, which often feel accusatory and escalate tension. One way to handle a male chauvinist husband is to encourage him to shift to “I” statements.

By expressing how he feels from his perspective—such as saying, “I feel frustrated when…”—the conversation becomes less about blaming and more about understanding. 

• Why it helps: This change in communication can help both of you feel heard and respected.

20. No flirting for anyone

Male chauvinists often live by double standards, with one set of rules for themselves and another for their partners. It’s important to address this behavior and establish that the same rules apply to both partners, especially when it comes to flirting.

Make it clear that neither of you should be engaging in flirtatious behavior, regardless of the circumstances. 

• Why it helps: Setting these boundaries equally is an important aspect of learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband and ensuring mutual respect in your marriage.

21. No more undermining your concerns or thoughts

Male chauvinists tend to dismiss their partner’s perspectives, especially when trying to solve a problem quickly. However, even if he disagrees or finds your viewpoint unrealistic, that judgment should remain unspoken.

Everyone has their own opinions, and even if they don’t align with the solution at hand, it’s crucial to respect the effort behind those thoughts.

• Why it helps: This approach is key to understanding how to handle a male chauvinist husband while fostering a respectful environment.

22. If you need time alone, ensure that he recognizes this

Personal space is a necessity, even in marriage. Make it clear to your male chauvinist husband that needing time alone is normal and important for maintaining a healthy relationship.

This independent time helps each of you recharge and refocus, especially when figuring out new ways to handle a male chauvinist husband.

• Why it helps: By respecting each other’s need for space, you both can grow individually and as a couple.

23. Ignore the behavior sometimes

There are moments when the best way to handle a male chauvinist husband is to simply ignore the behavior. If addressing it would only escalate into conflict, letting it go may be the wiser option. 

However, this approach should be balanced with setting boundaries when necessary to protect your self-respect.

• Why it helps: Ignoring certain chauvinistic behaviors can prevent them from progressing into arguments and help you maintain peace. 

24. Discuss when boundaries are crossed

When your male chauvinist husband crosses established boundaries, it’s time for a discussion. Boundaries are in place to protect both partners, and when they’re disregarded, it shows a lack of respect. 

Make sure he understands that breaking boundaries is unacceptable and that it could lead to further consequences if not addressed.

• Why it helps:Addressing this issue directly is a key step in learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband. 

25. Counseling

Seeking professional help is another effective way to handle a male chauvinist husband. A couples counselor can provide guidance and help him recognize problematic behaviors that need to change.

A trained professional can also offer both of you tools for better communication and a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives. 

• Why it helps: Counseling can be a game-changer when addressing male chauvinism in your relationship.

26. Encourage self-reflection

Encouraging self-reflection is an essential step in learning how to handle a male chauvinist husband. Help him examine his beliefs, attitudes, and actions, especially regarding gender roles and equality.

Instead of reacting with anger when chauvinistic behavior occurs, approach him with curiosity and a willingness to understand. Say something like, “I want us to understand each other better. Can we discuss why we feel the way we do?” 

• Why it helps: This approach promotes growth and understanding for both partners.

Watch this TED Talk by James Schmidt, an educator, who shares how self-reflection builds awareness, improves decisions, and helps people grow through an honest understanding of themselves.

27. Educate

Education is a powerful tool for challenging and changing chauvinistic beliefs. Start by sharing resources like books, articles, or documentaries that explore gender equality and challenge stereotypes.

Recommend books that offer fresh perspectives on how men and women can thrive as equals in both relationships and society.

• Why it helps: Providing information is a proactive way to help your husband grow and learn how to handle a male chauvinist mindset.

Moving forward

Handling a male chauvinist husband is not about winning arguments or changing someone overnight. It is about staying grounded in your self-worth, setting clear boundaries, and choosing responses that protect your emotional well-being. Small, consistent steps often create more impact than confrontation alone. 

Some situations improve with honest communication, while others require outside support or deeper reflection. Trust your instincts and give yourself credit for your strength. Remember, respect is not something you earn by adjusting yourself. It is something every healthy relationship must offer freely and consistently.

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Rachael Pace Author

Rachael Pace is a noted relationship writer associated with Marriage.com. She provides inspiration, support, and empowerment in the form of motivational articles and essays. Rachael enjoys studying the evolution of loving partnerships... Read more and is passionate about writing on them. She believes that everyone should make room for love in their lives and encourages couples to work on overcoming their challenges together. Read less