Untitled Flashcards Set

What is the definition of women’s and gender studies?

An academic field that focuses on the study of women, gender, and feminism, examining all factors that contribute to the construction of gender roles and identities.

What are gender roles?

Expectations, behaviors, and roles society considers appropriate for men and women, dictating how they should act and think.

Define gender formation.

The process by which individuals and society construct and understand gender roles.

What is a gender schematic?

A framework in which individuals categorize themselves and others based on a societal gender classification system, often leading to rigid perceptions of gender roles.

What does patriarchal bargain mean?

A strategic compliance by some women with patriarchy's norms in exchange for personal benefits or power, reinforcing the oppressive system.

Define hegemonic masculinity.

The dominant conceptualization of masculinity in society, representing the most respected and admired qualities associated with being a man, such as strength and leadership.

What is hegemonic femininity?

The dominant form of femininity that supports male interests and traditional gender roles.

What is the double bind concept?

A no-win situation regarding femininity where women face judgment regardless of their chosen actions.

Define sexism.

Gender prejudice based on assumptions and stereotypes rather than actual experiences or reasons.

What is hostile sexism?

Overt gender prejudice based on the belief that men are superior and carry a higher status than women.

Define benevolent sexism.

A more subtle form of sexism that, while appearing affectionate, ultimately reinforces traditional gender roles.

What does misogyny refer to?

Hatred or dislike of women or feminine qualities.

What is the meaning of patriarchy?

A societal system that is male-centered and male-dominated.

Define coverture.

A legal term from the 1800s where married women had no legal identity apart from their husbands.

What is feminism?

A movement to end sexism, sexist exploitation, and oppression, ensuring gender equality.

What is the mythical norm?

A concept referring to the idealized standard or stereotype of privilege, typically representing white, thin, male, young, heterosexual, and Christian individuals.

What is intersectionality?

How various social identities intersect to shape individual experiences of oppression and privilege.

Define oppression.

A network of restrictive forces that limit the freedoms of individuals.

What is service work?

A special class of work that all women are expected to perform for men, including personal, sexual, and ego service.

What does liberal feminist theory advocate for?

Emphasizes individual freedom and equality, seeking to reform systems that limit women and other genders.

Define radical feminist theory.

Belief that women's oppression is universal and requires changing the system rather than reforming it.

What is Marxist feminist theory?

A perspective that views women's oppression as rooted in their economic exploitation by capitalism.

What is critical to socialist feminism?

Addressing oppression in society beyond economic issues, including race and sexual orientation.

Define feminist standpoint theory.

The view that women's experiences offer unique insights into society.

What is hegemonic feminism?

A dominant form of feminism that primarily represents the interests of white, middle-class women.

What is US intersectional feminism?

Examining how various factors like race, gender, and class intersect to create unique experiences of discrimination.

What does transnational feminism focus on?

Global forces and local struggles affecting women and marginalized groups, especially in the Global South.

Define postcolonial feminism.

The analysis of the oppression of women and men in the Global South rooted in colonialism.

What is the essence of queer theory?

The study of how sexual orientation and gender identity categories are fluid and shaped by social influences.

What does Judith Butler contribute to Gender Studies?

Introduced the concept of gender performativity, which suggests gender is constructed through repeated actions.

Define performativity.

The concept that gender is created by doing rather than being a fixed identity.

What is male flight?

The tendency of men to avoid situations where gender roles change or where women gain power.

What does exculpatory chauvinism refer to?

A phenomenon where negative traits associated with men are used to justify male dominance over women.

What is the hierarchy of masculinity?

The social ranking that places certain forms of masculinity above others, often valuing traditional masculinity.

Define emasculation.

Stripping someone of their masculine identity or qualities through various social pressures.

What is fragile masculinity?

The exaggerated avoidance of femininity due to the fear of losing one’s masculinity.

What does compensatory masculinity refer to?

Acts taken to reassert masculinity when faced with a perceived threat to one’s masculine identity.