This portfolio has greatly contributed to my understanding of differences that exist between men and women and why these differences occur. I also feel that I am better able to recognize gender differences in real life situations. While doing the portfolio I noticed several reoccurring themes.
First, and possibly most importantly, stereotypes and assumed gender-roles have a great impact on both men and women. As a whole, society places certain expectations on men and women. This puts pressure on the two genders to act in certain ways. These assumed gender roles are placed upon children at a very young age, which causes them to grow up under the impression that they must act how their gender is supposed to. This greatly limits individuals, and does not promote diversity. There should not be a certain way women are supposed to act and a certain way men are supposed to act. In order to achieve gender equality, we need to work to do away with these gender-role stereotypes. If a woman can cry and display emotions, she should not think less of a man for doing the same. And if a man can work full-time, and be independent, a woman should not be criticized for this lifestyle.
Next, the status of women has significantly improved, but we still have a great way to go. Since Seneca Falls in 1848, women have made great progress. Women now have the right to vote and earn a salary, but full equality has yet to be achieved. This is evident in many ways. For example, women frequently are victims of sexual harassment, there are different expectations for them in the workplace, they are not paid as much as men, and are limited by the glass ceiling. If full equality did exist, these problems would not be reality. Another problem is the negative connotation of feminism. Society needs to be more aware of the meaning and goals of feminist, and more open to it. Based on my blog entries related to the status of women, I fully believe that women’s progress is hindered by stereotypes and expectations. Women are limited by the roles society expects them to fulfill, and they are frequently criticized for going against gender norms.
Until taking this class, I never realized how powerful the media truly is. The messages that are sent by the media in regards to gender shock me. The way men and women are portrayed is not only unrealistic, but unacceptable. Whether coming from the news, a television show, magazine, or film, men and women are portrayed in very stereotypical ways. Men are the breadwinners, while women are the homemakers. Men are shown as strong, independent, athletic and overall, more important. Women are shown as attractive, thin, unintelligent, relationship obsessed, and dramatic. Portraying the genders in this way practically is a self-fulfilling prophecy. When we see people act in these ways on television, especially when they are famous, we come to believe that this is how we are supposed to act. Also, if we do not look like the celebrities do, or act in these ways, our self-esteem more often than not, lowers drastically.
Overall, it is evident that gender-role stereotypes need to end. Society needs to focus more on individuality, rather than gender expectations. If this were the case, equality would be much easier to achieve. The stereotypes that society places on both men and women prevent individuals from expressing their thoughts and emotions openly, achieving their goals, and living their desired lifestyle.
