Question

sociology : For the women in the class: Compare your experiences in middle school
with the findings in the article "On Becoming Female". How were your
experiences similar to what Elder reports? How were they different?

Answer 1

One of the most important things about the middle school is all about showing off because girls were expected to be pretty and physically attractive not only to be accepted by girls in groups but also to be liked by the boys. This physical attractiveness and sexiness were considered to be the two most important characteristics in making females. Elder also suggests that it’s important to maintain these two characteristics while at the same time maintaining chastity which is also found to be great values. my experience is very similar to how Elder portrays females. Society has defined gender role for women in terms of their physical look, dressing, food, the jobs that they could take-up apart from the traditional household tasks they need to complete. Thus, a female is caught between two extremes of being glamorous and being respected, being pleasant while also being responsible. Nevertheless, not many have understood the importance of just shedding of the traditional roles and venture into fields one likes to play and lead a happy life is what would bring meaning and fulfil one’s purpose in life. Those who get caught in between would get lost in the gender norms of the society while those who take bold decisions to overcome the gender stereotypes would thrive.

Thank you for your question. Please rate if you like the answer.