Answer: In the 1950s, women's primary duty in society was to care for their families. Women were supposed to be nurturing mothers, diligent housewives, and submissive wives. "Modern moms," as they were dubbed, couldn't have friends, jobs, or anything else that would take their attention away from their responsibilities at home and with their families. Men were supposed to be the head of the household and the sole provider during the 1950s, while women were expected to be the housewife who cared for the children.