Ch. 8 Becoming the Woman or Man you want to be

A set of flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on gender roles, socialization, and related sociological theories.

Gender-role socialization

The process by which individuals learn the gender norms of their culture and the behaviors expected of them as men or women.

Gender similarities hypothesis

A theory stating that men and women are highly similar in their psychological attributes and abilities.

Positive masculinity

An approach focusing on the strengths and capacities of men rather than reinforcing traditional negative stereotypes.

Gender-atypical behaviors

Actions or traits that do not conform to traditional gender norms and roles.

Gender-atypical behaviors examples

• A boy playing with dolls or enjoying dress-up in traditionally "feminine" clothes.

• A woman working as a mechanic, construction worker, or leading a corporate boardroom.

• A boy expressing a preference for fashion or makeup.

• A woman choosing not to shave body hair or wear makeup.

Gender-role strain

The stress and difficulty in conforming to the cultural expectations of gender roles.

Gender-role strain examples

• A female CEO being criticized as "too aggressive" for showing the same leadership traits that are praised in male CEOs.

• A stay-at-home dad feeling ashamed or judged by others for not being the family breadwinner.

Gender-role conflict

The tension individuals experience when their personal feelings and behaviors conflict with traditional gender role expectations.

Gender-role conflict example

• A gay man feeling pressure to behave in traditionally masculine ways to avoid stigma or discrimination.

• A teenage girl wanting to express herself sexually but fearing judgment or being labeled because of double standards in gender expectations.

Traditional Male Stereotypes

• Emotional unavailability

• Independence

• Power & aggressiveness

• Denial of fears

• Protection of his inner self

• Etc.

What are the value of mens group

Men's groups provide support, promote emotional expression, and challenge traditional male stereotypes. They offer safe spaces for men to discuss their experiences and develop healthier relationships.

• What it means to be father

• Trust other men

• Mental health

• Anger & frustration management

Traditional Female Stereotypes

• Warmth, expressiveness, & nurturance

• Not assertive ot independent

• Emotional & intuitive

• More intrested in relationships than in professional accomplishments

Discrimination

Unfair treatment of individuals based on their gender, race or other characteristics, affecting opportunities and rights.

Glass ceiling

An unofficial barrier that prevents women and minorities from advancing to top positions in professional fields.

Androgyny

A blending of typical feminine and masculine traits, allowing for a flexible range of behaviors depending on the context.

Third genders

Social categories for gender identities that do not fit traditional male or female roles, recognized in various cultures.

Gender-role transcendence

Going beyond rigid masculine and feminine categories to achieve a personal synthesis of gender attributes.