Thursday, October 18, 2012

Social Construction of Gender

The social construction of gender is based on perceived sex differences in society rather than biological bases. I agree that society plays a big part when it comes to gender roles. Children are being exposed to certain stereotypes they feel they need to fit into because of their gender. They can be influenced by television shows, movies, fairy tales, and even toys sold in local stores. The way we communicate with kids also drops hints and leads them to act a certain way.

From the moment a child is born they are dressed in either blue or pink to show their gender. Little girls get dressed up in cute princess outfits, and boys are dressed in camouflage shirts and darker shades. Movies and fairy tales make the women seem to be in dire need of a mans help to come rescue them, showing that men are tough and brave and woman fall into the damsel in distress category. Adults address children differently based on gender. Even toys sold in stores for boys and girls are drastically different. According to society, boys play with trucks, super heroes, and action figures, and girls play with baby dolls, princesses, and barbies.


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