1. Gender and Adolescent Development

2. Introduction Shortchanging Girls, Shortchanging America Report ‘91 F Achievement F Self-esteem F Confidence F Positive Attributes Gender Gaps today... Popular Press - vulnerabilities of girls during adolescence Popular Press - vulnerabilities of boys during adolescence

3. Overview F examine what it means to be male or female in our society and how these gender roles impact adolescent development F discuss both the vulnerabilities and the strengths of girls and boys regarding identity formation around gender roles F consider the diversity of girls’ and boys’ experiences F consider ways to support positive development regarding gender during adolescence

6. Gender Stereotypes in US F Males F Females F Individual Variability F gender roles vs. gender role identity

7. Cultural Differences §Ethnic differences in stereotypes §Social Class stereotypes §Sexual orientation §stereotypes

8. Development of Gender F Young Children F Middle Childhood (ages 8-11) F Adolescence F Adulthood F Females more flexible…Why?

9. Why is adolescence a time of risk for girls? F Vulnerabilities for girls (depending on culture) F Academics: self-evaluation, anxiety F Depression F “Voice” or self-expression F Body Image F Self-esteem F Good Woman Stereotype F Contradictory messages for girls in our society

10. The Boy Code

11. Why is adolescence a time of risk for boys? F Aggression /Acting Out F antisocial behavior; violence F conduct disorders F drug and alcohol abuse F Academics F held back; drop out F discipline problems; suspensions; expulsions F grades; study habits; engagement F attention deficit disorder F Emotions F intimacy; expressing emotions F help-seeking

12. What factors are related to popularity for boys? F Athletic ability F Coolness F Toughness F Social Skills F Cross gender relations F Academic performance

13. What factors are related to popularity for girls? F Physical appearance F Social skills F Cross gender relations F Academic performance