Gender Norms: Breaking the Social Expectations of Women - Essay Sample

Introduction

Gender norms are the societal standards relating to the gender differences between men and women. However, gender, in our context, will be used as a reference to the shared social expectations and informal rules that are essential for distinguishing behaviors in society. For instance, it is a commonly known norm engraved in society that girls and women ought to do domestic works, and men perform tasks regarded as masculine.

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What I planned to do and why

I planned to show that women can take the roles assigned or regarded as men's responsibilities. In my exercise, I assumed the role of midwife - a role that is traditionally considered to be a female occupation. In a span of one week, I involved in taking care of my little niece. For instance, I could carry her around on my back, feed her milk, wash her clothes, change her diapers, and lullaby her to sleep. It was a pleasant and educative experience. I intended to do this exercise to show the society that gender expectations and norms are outrageous and depict women as weak and feeble rather than individuals who possess the same abilities, skills and prowess as men, only if allowed to show their capability (Lzz, 99).

How did others respond to my act?

I received ridicule and contempt from my male friends. I was insulted and abused by many people, the majority of them being men. They could not understand why I was performing a role that is feminine-centered. However, my mother and sisters were proud of me. They congratulated me for being such a brave individual. My mother believes that gender norms are a hindrance to human's enjoyment of their rights and expression of free will. My aunt was commendable to my exercise. She, too, believes that gender norm is a stereotype that was invented by men to subject and discriminate against the girl child. However, my father disapproved of my midwifery exercise (Lzz, 100). He was of the view that taking care of a baby is a task, which is traditionally and responsibly the role of women. A man doing such an act is a sign of weakness and vulnerability.

Were there any surprise for me?

Yes, it came as a surprise to me that gender stereotypes are still engrained in our society despite the progress we have made in education. On the course of the performance of my exercise, I realized that society has socialized women as individuals who have no meaningful role rather than to do caring and domestic responsibility. In other words, my task was a clear affirmation that society perceives a girl child as an economically weak individual who should depend on a man. In essence, a male must take care of his wife and the duty of a woman to look after their children (Janet, 108). The stereotype of women as caregivers in my society has led to the subjection and discrimination of a girl child. I also realized that occupational segregation is imminent in my community - the majority of girls pursue careers in feminine-oriented fields such as nursing and journalism with boys specializing in technology, science, and engineering courses.

Was my 'outrageous act' successful, and how do I know?

Yes, my act was successful. I know this because for a couple of days I spent with my niece, I felt tremendous and individually fulfilled. The child became used to me and could not let another person holds her even for a minute. She could cry hysterically but stops when I take her into my arms.

Work Cited

"Gendered vocabulary" by Lzz Johnk

"Gender on the web" by Janet Lockhart