Gendered Messages in Society

Various authors have developed studies aimed at assessing the issue of gender equality. In every society, there is a suggestion that men and women should be different in terms of roles, motivation, and masculinity, among others. Different objects and practices pass different messages regarding gender equality. Such messages can encourage accommodation or resistance to gender practices among children or adolescents. This paper focuses on analyzing gendered messages of practice in celebrated sports, school-based learning practices, stories, and toys that target adolescents and children.

The primary objective is to evaluate the impact of these societal elements on shaping children's and adolescents' perceptions of gender roles, and to determine whether these elements encourage adherence to or resistance against traditional gender norms.

Toys and Gender Socialization

A significant aspect of gender socialization comes from the toys given to children, which can perpetuate traditional gender roles. Parents often give their children sexist toys as gifts, which reinforces conventional gender roles by introducing children to gender-specific expectations at a young age. When a child is born, they are a blank slate regarding societal norms, and their perceptions are shaped by early experiences (Oakley, 2016). For instance, the Barbie doll is a prominent example of a toy that embodies sexist ideals, portraying a woman with a perfect body and hair, suggesting that women should strive to meet this unrealistic standard of beauty. Society often interprets Barbie as the epitome of femininity, teaching girls from a young age that their worth is tied to their appearance and ability to please men. Any deviation from this norm is often perceived as a rebellion against societal expectations.

Conversely, boys are typically encouraged to play with toys that promote strength and adventure, such as action figures wielding weapons or driving fast vehicles. Boys are discouraged from playing with toys deemed feminine, such as dolls or kitchen sets. These distinctions in toy preferences reinforce traditional gender roles by assigning different societal expectations to boys and girls. This early introduction to gender-specific roles can be challenging to change as children grow into adults. Fausto-Sterling (2005) challenges both feminist and biomedical theories, noting differences in bone composition and strength between genders, which have historically been used to justify these societal roles. The choice of toys, therefore, supports entrenched gender norms by creating distinct childhood experiences for boys and girls.

Clothing and Gender Identity

Clothing choices also play a significant role in conveying gender norms to children and adolescents. Modern society often dictates distinct styles for boys and girls, reinforcing traditional gender expectations (Oakley, 2016). For example, in one case, a girl named Claire breaks up with her boyfriend and begins dressing like a man, attempting to change her emotional state. She observes that men are more easily deceived and do not notice her gender due to her clothing choices (Oakley, 2016). However, when she sends a photo of herself dressed as a man to her boyfriend, his reaction is not favorable, prompting her to revert to more traditionally feminine attire to gain his approval (Oakley, 2016). This scenario underscores the societal pressure on women to conform to specific gender norms through clothing, reinforcing the idea that men and women should adhere to distinct dress codes.

Work and Gender Roles

The division of labor is another area where traditional gender roles persist, often leaving men out of discussions about their societal roles. Men are typically expected to take on manual labor jobs to provide for their families, roles that often expose them to physical risks and health issues. While it may appear that men dominate certain job sectors, this expectation can contribute to gender inequality by limiting opportunities for women in these fields. Corbett et al. (2014) argue that there is no ideal definition of gender, as it is not strictly tied to masculinity or femininity. The entrenched perception that men are responsible for physically demanding tasks has hindered progress toward gender equality by resisting the inclusion of women in male-dominated sectors. Therefore, the traditional division of labor continues to perpetuate gender norms, making it difficult to achieve true equality in the workplace.

Media and Gender Stereotypes

Media, particularly magazines targeted at teenagers, often perpetuates gender stereotypes that hinder the advancement of gender equality. Women in these magazines are frequently portrayed in stereotypical roles, reinforcing outdated gender norms. These messages can demoralize boys and create confusion about their roles in society, as mothers may discourage them from participating in activities deemed feminine. While society aspires to achieve gender equality, such media representations often accommodate traditional gender norms that oppose progress. Shapiro and Williams (2012) explore how stereotype threats related to women's math abilities undermine gender equality, highlighting how media messages can reinforce these stereotypes. Consequently, media representations that promote traditional gender roles impede efforts to achieve gender equality.

Sports and Gender Inclusion

The inclusion of both girls and boys in sports, such as athletics, plays a vital role in shaping perceptions of gender roles. Unlike in the past, when sports were predominantly male-oriented and women were relegated to the sidelines, today's schools encourage both genders to participate in similar sports (Pfister, 2010). This shift challenges the traditional view of sports as a male domain and promotes the idea that both men and women have equal capabilities. As Corbett argues, gender is not inherently tied to masculinity or femininity, allowing for a more inclusive understanding of individual abilities. The participation of both genders in sports sends a powerful message to children and adolescents that challenges traditional gender norms and promotes equality.

Conclusion

This paper has highlighted various societal practices and their roles in shaping gender perceptions among children and adolescents. From toys and clothing to work and media, each element carries messages that can reinforce traditional gender roles. By examining these practices through the lens of gender-based philosophies, we can better understand how they influence perceptions of gender equality. Ultimately, promoting inclusivity and challenging traditional norms in these areas can pave the way for a more equitable society. The integration of both men and women in sports, for example, demonstrates the potential for societal change and reinforces the message that gender should not limit opportunities or define individual capabilities.

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