Gender Studies: Definitions, Theories, and Feminist Perspectives

Define gender.

Cultural meanings and social roles attached to being male or female.

Define gender stratification.

The unequal distribution of wealth, power, and privilege between men and women.

What is patriarchy

A social system in which men dominate women.

What is sexism

The belief that one sex is innately superior to the other.

According to Lever's research, how do peer groups shape gender

Boys favor competitive team sports; girls focus on cooperation and communication.

What is the "beauty myth"

The idea that a woman's worth depends on her physical appearance and attractiveness to men.

What is the gender pay gap in the U.S.

Women earn about 83 cents for every dollar earned by men.

What does the term "second shift" mean

Women's unpaid housework and caregiving responsibilities in addition to paid work.

Name three theories of gender.

Structural-functional, symbolic-interaction, and social-conflict theories.

How does the structural-functional theory explain gender

It views gender roles as complementary and necessary for social stability.

How does the social-conflict theory explain gender

It argues that capitalism strengthens male dominance and female subordination.

What is intersection theory

Examines how gender, race, and class combine to create multiple layers of disadvantage.

What are the main types of feminism

Liberal, Socialist, Radical, and Multicultural/Global feminism.

What is the goal of liberal feminism

Equal opportunity and rights for men and women.

What is the goal of radical feminism

Eliminating gender itself to create an egalitarian society.