Essay On Gender And Conflict

Gender and Conflict

Gender is how an individual defines themselves as being a male or female. There are several different aspects of ones gender that include; gender identity, sexual attraction, biological sex, and expression. Gender can be used as a social mask, to show the world how one defines themselves.

Males and females have a set of expectations of how to act in social situations, these expectations are one of the factors that shape our conflict styles.

Men and woman have different roles and expectations set out for them. Traditionally, men are the ones who support the family financially and woman support the family emotionally and otherwise.

I believe that these types of gender roles have created perceptions of the type of power that each gender can obtain, thus making it difficult for one gender to move into another gender’s typical roles. For example men who are stay at home dads are criticized as being

lazy or weak and at the same time woman who are moving into the workforce are being criticized as being incompetent.

It is not uncommon to hear a woman say she feels like she must do better than a man in order to be viewed as an equal. Keeping this in mind, succeeding in school, and moving upwards in one’s career would have fewer obstacles for a person, if others believe they belong in that position.
Woman may hold themselves to a higher standard in order to be respected within their work force. Working harder than your peers in order to get to the same position, may result in a male gaining his goals and power at a much faster rate.
When people think of power, the thought of strength or force comes to mind.

I find that it can be difficult to view as a person of being powerful, when their physical stature does not match the image of power in your mind. Being a small woman who looks younger than she is, I think that no one can look at me and see power.

Speaking as a woman who was involved in an abusive relationship for seven years, I can safely say that it can be relatively easy for a man to out power a woman.

My experiences with conflict as a teenager and as a young adult did not have an option for collaboration, which I believe has affected how I currently respond to potentially hostel situations. Disengaging in conflicts has proven effective in producing the least amount of damage possible.

There are many differences between men and woman; biologically, psychologically, and emotionally. The way in which a man view a conflict can be incredible different than a woman view of the same issue. Having different perspectives can lead to an opportunity where there can be better

outcomes.
Allowing various genders into the process of conflict negotiation can be beneficial to all parties involved, whether it is conflict on a small or large scale. By bringing in different genders, you are giving those who do not usually have it a voice. By allowing different genders into the negotiation processes you are saying that everyone in your society is equal and their opinions are valued.