1. Definition:
The role or behaviour learned by a person as appropriate to their gender, determined by the prevailing cultural norms. (dictionary.com)

2. “Sex is what is between your legs, and gender is what you think of yourself as a person,” (Jazz, Toronto Star, Storm Baby Article)

3. Gender roles

10. Gender roles are socially constructed
Gender socialization begins at birth
Communities and cultures influence how we treat people based on their sex
Roles are created through stereotypes
We assign people with a certain sex to roles they are supposed to fit into
In the community
At home
At work

11. Gender roles differ based on different cultures or societies

12. George Murdock (1937) Pre-industrial communities
In over 200 communities across the world, males and females generally had the same roles in the culture/ community
Men: strong, aggressive, hunters, warfare
Women: sensitive, nurturing, stays home to cook or care for the children
Gender roles were based on the physical aspects of the sexes
Women gave birth and therefore looked after the children
Men were biologically stronger and therefore hunted and fought

13. Margaret Mead (1900) First Tribe: Second Tribe: Third Tribe:
Both men and women had equal gender roles- They both completed stereotypically men and women tasks
Second Tribe:
Cannibals
Both men and women had equal roles- Stereotypically masculine roles
Perhaps due to the brutality of the society, both men and women were aggressive, selfish, and masculine
Third Tribe:
Men and women had different roles
Reverse of gender stereotypes
Men were submissive, emotional, and cared for the children
Women were logical and dominant

14. *Culture DOES have an effect on how men and women act*