1. Should gender roles be encouraged in children?
By Hannah Onder

2. Issue
Gender roles keep society functioning by setting social norms and expectations.
The traditional gender roles don’t treat each gender equality,
The traditional gender roles work to an extent. Should we keep them or try for something more equal?

3. Sides Gender Essentialists Constructionists
People are born a man or a woman and they die as that same man or woman.
Culture doesn’t influence the gender roles people are born into. Gender roles are biological and binary system.
“Chromosomes, hormones, and genitalia determine your identity – the way you see yourself, the way you interact with others, and the activities you engage in every day. Culture plays no role.” – Kelly Ferris and Jill Stein
Time and culture define the gender roles people play in society.
The binary system isn’t the only option people have and a system that encourages inequality among genders is unacceptable.
“Constructionists believe that the meaning of masculinity and femininity may differ drastically in different societies and historical periods.” –Kelly Ferris and Jill Stein

5. Examples
Family Structure
Children’s Media
Toys

6. Solution
Parents can teach their children the gender roles and encourage them to explore different masculine and feminine elements until they find their role.
PROs: Parents don’t have to worry about someone teaching it to their kid wrong. Parents are there offer support as the children explore.
CONs: The teachings wouldn’t be standardized. Teaching over the generations could take time.
WILL THIS GENERATION BE THE ONE TO START THE CHANGE?