2.  By expecting different behaviors from people
because they are male or female, society nudges
boys and girls into separate directions from an
early age
◦ This foundation carries over into adulthood
 “gender map”- our culture’s guidelines of what is
appropriate for our sexes

3. • Our parents are the first significant others who
show us how to follow the gender map
• Studies had concluded that in US society, mothers
unconsciously reward female children for being
passive and dependent and male children for
being active and independent
• In general, parents teach their children gender
roles in subtle ways
– With toys they buy, rules they set, and expectations they
have

4.  Gender socialization is reinforced as the child is
exposed to other aspects of society
◦ Peer group is one of the most powerful
 Friends, classmates, etc.

5.  Mass media reinforces society’s expectations of
gender
◦ TV- male characters outnumber females 2:1 and are
more likely to be portrayed in higher statuses