Women’s Evolving Roles: Gender, Authority, And the History of Latter-Day Saint Patriarchy

Author

Zachary Brady, Utah State University

Date of Award

5-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Departmental Honors

Department

English

Abstract

This project aims to further understand contemporary women’s issues within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by answering three questions. 1) What social and doctrinal factors have influenced the development of patriarchal structures within the LDS Church, and how have these factors evolved? 2) What are the current leadership and decision-making roles available to LDS women, and how does church membership feel about them? 3) What ideas exist for progress in gender equality and women’s leadership? This discussion provides relevant historical context, outlines current issues regarding LDS women’s authority challenges and theological interpretations, and numerous proposed solutions from historians, academics, activists, and church leaders.

Since the establishment of the Church, Latter-day Saint (Mormon) women have had a longstanding relationship with the Church’s patriarchy. While polygamy was oppressive to some through limitations of free speech, it empowered others to develop a strong internal authority and even defend the practice. Over a century, the church’s views on polygamy and women’s roles in administration shifted, with polygamy’s illegalization and a stronger emphasis on traditional roles encroaching over decades. While some in the contemporary church are complacent with current gender roles, recent events have prompted others to challenge the church’s structure— suggesting that the doctrine of Heavenly Parents and the admonition to emulate Them point to a side-by-side archetypal leadership for the church. Many saints push for progress through study, protest, and dialogue to advocate for further leadership and representation of women in the church.

Recommended Citation

Brady, Zachary, "Women’s Evolving Roles: Gender, Authority, And the History of Latter-Day Saint Patriarchy" (2025). Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects. 1006.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/honors/1006