The Importance Of Gender Roles

Gender roles are the social and behavioral norms that are generally considered appropriate, for either a man or a woman in a social or interpersonal relationship. There are different opinions on behavior and personality between genders due to cultural or social factors. Therefor gender roles are a product of socialization.

But in contemporary history the family structure and gender roles are very much different from the way they used to be. Traditional Responsibilities have drastically changed. In fact, the gap between different genders has already melted down, creating an all-equal society and much more equalized families. Today, the typical patriarchal structure has almost vanished in western culture but is still very prevalent in other societies.

What does it mean to be a woman or man? How do you act, talk, and behave like a woman or man? Are you feminine or masculine, both, or neither? These are questions that everyone asks himself or herself and others to further understand the concept of gender roles.

Personality traits play a crucial role in gender roles. For example, women are often expected to be passive and submissive, while men are usually expected to be self-confident and aggressive.

Furthermore domestic behaviors such as caring for children are often considered best done by women, while household repairs are often considered best done by men.

In addition the job occupation is very closely related to gender roles. For most nurses and secretaries are usually women, while most doctors and construction workers are men.

The physical experience is by far one of the most controversial yet important features of this topic. Women are expected to be thin and graceful while men are supposed to be tall and muscular.

Wom...

... middle of paper ...

...ged tremendously over time. In early history roles were very different from the way they are now. Religion and culture have also always had and still do have a huge impact on the way we view and shape ourselves. As we are in the middle of globalization the world seems to become a more liberal and understanding place. Cultures that were predominantly Muslim and restricted the rights of women have advanced. A great example is Turkey. There are still rural regions were Islam overpowers a more westernized, liberal mindset but the majority of young people have a very different perception towards gender role than older generation. The same goes for me. I have a much more liberal and modernized mindset towards gender roles than my grandparents. As mentioned earlier they are very traditional in regards to gender roles. On the other hand, my parents mostly agree with me.