Female Role in Society and its Perception

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Recently, women have begun to see changes in their role in society. Although girls and women are starting to receive messages about being strong, independent women, too often they are also still receiving messages indicating women should be fragile and domestic. In an article titled “Leader stereotypes match men more than women,” Catherine Kleiman quotes Alice Eagly, a psychology professor at Northwestern University who says that “it's bound to be challenging for women because there's a built-in role conflict" (1998). The contradicting ideas are conveyed in the media as well as in early childhood.
Women’s new role in society is focused on independence. Society has found that women are able to thrive without set limitations and expectations despite earlier notions. The media no longer focuses primarily on superficial aspects of women but also on a more profound basis. In Ever After, a modern version of Cinderella, Danielle is respected not only for her beauty but also for her intelligence and distinct personality. She shares her knowledge of democracy, education, and equality with Henry, the prince. Danielle’s actions represent the new forms of empowerment modern women strive for. Women are now encouraged to educate themselves beyond the domestic elements. Advertisements share this idea of a “new woman.” Hamburger Helper ads typically present working women who are also able to make dinner for the family. In “Beauty and the Beast of Advertising,” Jean Kilbourne recognizes that it is somewhat common to see a “liberated woman” with “independence and self esteem”(2000, p. 239). Similar ideas of independence are portrayed in the business world. New positions are shaped for strong-willed women who are able to take on more responsibility. These new roles for women are continuing to gain acceptance.
Despite the modern views of women, the traditional concepts of what it means to be a woman are still being taught in the early stages of development. Parents encourage outdated roles in the way little girls are dressed, the toys they play with, and the books that are read to them. The overall attitude of the parents is projected onto the child, as well. As pointed out in “X: A Fabulous Child’s Story” by Lois Gould, girls are treated a distinct way. Usually cuddled and kissed, girls are treated as if they a...

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...ally with these common mixed messages being sent out in every direction. In order for the reformed ideals to be recognized, the old ideals must be dismantled. Only then can society realize that family life is an interest not the interest for women.

APA References

Gould, L. (2000). X: A fabulous child's story. In K. Ackley, Perspectives on Contemporary issues: Reading across the disciplines (2nd ed.)(p. 381-389). Ft. Worth: Harcourt College Publishers.

Kilbourne, J. (1989). Beauty and the beast of advertising. In K. Ackley, Perspectives on Contemporary issues: Reading across the disciplines (2nd ed.)(p. 237-240). Ft. Worth: Harcourt College Publishers.

Kleiman, C. (1998). Leader stereotypes match men more than women. The Kansas City Star.
< http://www.kcstar.com/item/pages/business.pat,business/30da3dc2.719,.html> (1999, Dec 4).

Perkins, L. (1997). The culture of slimness.
< http://www.vanderbilt.edu/AnS/psychology/health_psychology/slender.html> (1999, Dec 4),

Weiskopf, C. (1997). How do females on the screen affect your life. Current Health 2, 24(3), 13-15. Retrieved December 4, 1999 from GALILEO, Periodical Abstracts.

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