Afghan women remain at the crossroads of different kinds of stereotyping. The sex/gender system practiced exemplifies “ineluctable patriarchy” and necessitates that young girls marry into large families, gain respect primarily by bearing sons, and later in life obtain power as mothers-in-law. Seclusion of women from all males excepting the maḥārim (acceptable male guardians) through a system of purdah (seclusion) is widely practiced while most women are required to wear a burqaʿ (veil) in public. This kind of seclusion is regarded as crucial to the family's honor and pride. Afgh…