Q. Discuss the role of media and school in gender socialization.

Gender is a sociologically constructed concept; we need to understand how the process

works in society. In society, each one has different beliefs and understanding about
what is expected of a girl or a boy. And if we further probe into their gender-related
behaviour, we will observe that students reflect the beliefs and practices of their
families, community, neighbourhood, and society at large. This process of acquiring
gender-related behaviours and attitudes through the intervention of society is called
gender socialisation.
Definitions
 Encyclopedia of Early Childhood Development: Gender socialisation is the
process through which children learn about social expectations, attitudes, and
behaviours typically associated with boys and girls
 Henslin (1999): “Gender Socialization refers to the learning of behaviour and
attitudes considered appropriate for a given sex”.
 Cynthia Vinney (2019): “Gender Socialization is the process by which we learn
our culture’s gender-related rules, norms and expectations”.
Role of media in gender socialization
Media plays a significant role in gender socialization by shaping our understanding of
what it means to be masculine or feminine. Through television shows, movies,
advertisements, and other forms of media, we are exposed to various representations of
gender roles and expectations.
One way in which media influences gender socialization is by perpetuating gender
stereotypes. For example, women are often depicted as emotional, nurturing, and
submissive, while men are portrayed as strong, dominant, and aggressive. These
stereotypes can affect how individuals perceive themselves and others and can limit
their opportunities and choices.
Media can also contribute to the objectification of women and the sexualization of
girls. The portrayal of women's bodies as objects of desire can reinforce harmful
attitudes about gender and sexuality and can contribute to the normalization of sexual
harassment and assault.
Further, the media can reinforce gender inequalities by under-representing or
misrepresenting women and minorities. This lack of representation can perpetuate
stereotypes and marginalize certain groups of people, making it more difficult for them
to gain equal access to opportunities and resources.
However, the media can also challenge gender stereotypes and promote positive
representations of gender diversity. For example, the media can depict women in
positions of power and influence, or showcase gender-nonconforming individuals who
defy traditional gender roles. These representations can help to break down gender
barriers and promote greater acceptance and understanding of gender diversity.
Overall, the media plays a significant role in shaping our understanding of gender roles
and expectations. While media can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce
gender inequalities, it can also challenge these stereotypes and promote greater gender
diversity and inclusion.
Role of school in gender socialization
Schools play a crucial role in gender socialization by transmitting cultural norms and
expectations about gender to students. Through interactions with peers, teachers, and
the curriculum, students learn about what it means to be a "girl" or a "boy" and how
they should behave by those gender norms.
One way in which schools socialize students into gender roles is through the use of
gendered language and behaviour. For example, teachers may use language that
reinforces traditional gender roles, such as praising girls for being quiet and well-
behaved and boys for being assertive and active. Classroom activities may also be
gendered, with girls encouraged to pursue activities related to caregiving and boys
encouraged to pursue activities related to sports and physical activity.
Schools can also reinforce gender stereotypes through the curriculum. For example,
history textbooks may focus primarily on the accomplishments of men, while literature
classes may emphasize works written by male authors. Science and math classes may
also be gendered, with boys encouraged to pursue these subjects while girls are steered
towards humanities and social sciences.
However, schools can also play a positive role in challenging gender stereotypes and
promoting gender equality. For example, schools can encourage students to explore
non-traditional gender roles and challenge stereotypes about gender. Schools can also
promote gender equality through inclusive policies and practices, such as providing
equal opportunities for boys and girls in sports and other extracurricular activities.
Overall, schools are an important socialization agent that can shape students'
understanding of gender roles and expectations. While schools can reinforce gender
stereotypes and inequalities, they can also promote greater gender diversity and
inclusivity by challenging traditional gender roles and promoting gender equality.