The topic of gender identity has been a hotly contentious issue for several years. People have tried to establish the role that pertains to a particular gender as shaped by various factors such as the society, historical happenings, and even politics. Researchers have also tried to explain this phenomenon, and some suggest that boys and girls start showing a difference in behavior as early as a few months. The issue of the influences of gender roles is still under investigation, and a definitive verdict is yet to be realized (Bowden, 1997). Of importance to note, though, is that as boys and girls grow, they begin to show differences in their behavior which become even more distinct. This paper seeks to evaluate the differences in behavior exhibited by these two genders by answering a few questions about perceived gender roles.
Do you identify with any of the stereotypical characteristics of your gender?
Society plays a significant role in shaping gender identity for both males and females (Kimmel, Aronson, 2000). Stereotyping regarding the definition of sex roles is known to begin from an early age. For example, male children who react to circumstances by exhibiting emotions are branded as being feminine. The male gender is expected to act tough in all situations and not show emotional outbursts especially in the public façade (Kimmel, Aronson, 2000). As a male, I find myself identifying with this stereotype that has come to form part of my perceived gender identity. However much stressful or excruciating an ordeal may be, I would not even have the slightest thought of letting out my emotions in public. Such expressions can have serious repercussions on my male identity. This phenomenon may lead to being branded some funny names to associate me with the female gender as it is perceived that emotional outburst is likened to girls.
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Do you identify with any of the characteristics of the opposite gender? Why or why not?
I wouldn’t say that there is a particular behavior or characteristic that I exhibit of which I am aware that could associate me with the opposite gender. Personally, I would do my best to come out of any trait perceived as feminine if the behavior were to be present with me. It’s not being sexist or having any offense towards the female gender, but I think sticking to the male gender identity is much more satisfying than trying to or exuding traits that regarded as female. Probably the influence of society has a lot to do with gender identity (Glenn, 1997).
Describe some of the stereotypical characteristics presented in the video that you identify with and some you do not.
The video has provided insights into some of the common prejudices associated with a particular gender. There are some which I would probably identify with like the aspect of competitiveness regarding play patterns. I would describe myself as being overly competitive not just concerning engaging in sport but in supporting the same. The video ascribes this to the high testosterone in a male that increases the outlook of appearing aggressive. The short film also depicts men as having an affinity to math and sciences more than the females. I would not define myself as having a love for math or science that much as portrayed. Given the opportunity to opt for other disciplines I would probably not choose math.
Finally, it’s important to note that these stereotypes are not facts that define an individual’s personality. For example, there are so many females who have taken up career paths in the field of science and math as such one should not submit to be defined by these prejudices.
References
Bowden, P. (1997). Caring: An investigation in gender-sensitive ethics. London, United Kingdom: Routledge
Glenn, C. (1997). Rhetoric retold: Regendering the tradition from antiquity through the Renaissance. Carbondale, IL: Southern Illinois University Press.
Kimmel, M. S., & Aronson, A. (Eds.). (2000). The gendered society reader. Oxford, United Kingdom: Oxford University Press
