Assignment Code: BPCG-176/ Asst /TMA / July 2023 January 2024

Course Code: BPCG-176

Assignment Name: Psychology of Gender

Year: 2023-2024

Verification Status: Verified by Professor

Assignment One

Answer the following questions in about 500 words each. Each question carries 20 marks.

Q1) Explain gender role attitudes and their measurement. Discuss social role theory of Alice Eagley.

Ans) The term "gender role attitudes" refers to the views, behaviours, and expectations that society ascribes to individuals on the basis of their gender. On the other hand, these attitudes cover societal standards and ideas of what is deemed appropriate or usual for males and females in numerous sectors of life, including as the workplace, the home, relationships, and behaviour.  The assessment of people's ideas, values, and opinions regarding the roles, duties, and capacities of men and women in society is what is meant by the term "measurement of gender role attitudes."

Several methods are used to measure these attitudes:

a)     Surveys and Questionnaires: Researchers use structured questionnaires with statements or scenarios to gauge individuals' attitudes towards gender roles. Participants rate their level of agreement or disagreement with these statements, allowing researchers to quantify attitudes on a scale.

b)     Interviews and Focus Groups: Qualitative methods involve in-depth interviews or focus group discussions to explore individuals' attitudes towards gender roles in more detail. This approach helps in understanding the nuances, motivations, and cultural variations in these attitudes.

c)     Observational Studies: Observing and recording behaviours in various settings can provide insights into how gender roles manifest in real-life situations. For instance, studying how household chores are divided or how people behave in workplace settings based on gender expectations.

Alice Eagly, a social psychologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of gender roles through her Social Role Theory. This theory emphasizes the role of societal expectations and structures in shaping gender differences.

a)     Social Roles: Eagly posited that gender differences arise primarily from societal expectations and division of labour. These expectations lead to the development of specific roles for men and women. For instance, historically, men were expected to be providers and women caretakers, shaping their behaviours and attitudes.

b)     Division of Labor: Eagly highlighted that the different roles assigned to men and women in society lead to the development of distinct skills, behaviours, and attitudes. Over time, these roles become ingrained in social norms and influence individuals' self-concepts.

c)     Adaptation: According to Eagly, individuals adapt to these societal roles, shaping their behaviours and attitudes to fit into these expectations. For example, men might adopt more assertive or dominant behaviours in line with the expectation of being breadwinners, while women might develop nurturing or caregiving traits.

d)     Cultural Variations: While it is true that social roles are prominent, Eagly acknowledged that these positions might differ from culture to culture and society to society. It is because of the effect of cultural norms and values on the precise duties that are ascribed to each gender that there are disparities in opinions regarding gender roles across different countries.

Surveys, interviews, observations, and other methods can be used to measure attitudes on gender roles. These attitudes are affected by the expectations that society places on individuals. The Social Role Theory proposed by Eagly places an emphasis on the influence that societal roles and expectations have on the development of gender differences. This theory also highlights the significance of understanding these roles in order to comprehend attitudes and behaviours that are associated with certain genders.

Q2) Discuss the psychosocial status of LGBT community.

Ans) The psychological state of the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) group is complicated and influenced by a wide range of issues. These elements include attitudes held by society, discrimination, the formation of identities, mental health, and access to resources. Recognizing both the progress that has been made in acceptance and the ongoing obstacles that this community continues to encounter is necessary in order to gain an understanding of the psychosocial status of this community.

Social Stigma and Discrimination: Individuals who identify as LGBT frequently face stigma, prejudice, and discrimination as a result of their sexual orientation or gender identity characteristics. The social marginalisation that people experience can result in feelings of stress, worry, and sadness, as well as an increased likelihood of suffering mental health problems. Many members of the LGBT community are subjected to a hostile environment as a result of factors such as rejection from their families, bullying at school or employment, and attitudes held by society.

Mental Health Concerns: It has been demonstrated time and again via research that those who identify as LGBT are more likely to suffer from mental health illnesses than the general population. There are a number of factors that contribute to higher levels of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation among LGBT individuals. Some of these factors include minority stress, which is stress caused by being a member of a marginalised group; internalised homophobia or transphobia; and fear of rejection.

Identity Development: The process of understanding and accepting one's sexual orientation or gender identity can be challenging for many in the LGBT community. Coming out, exploring one's identity, and seeking acceptance within society and oneself are crucial stages that can impact mental health and overall well-being.

Access to Healthcare: LGBT individuals may face barriers in accessing inclusive and knowledgeable healthcare services. Discrimination or lack of understanding from healthcare providers can deter individuals from seeking necessary care, leading to disparities in health outcomes.

Community Support and Resilience: Despite challenges, the LGBT community often demonstrates resilience and strength through supportive networks, advocacy groups, and safe spaces. These communities provide vital support systems, promoting acceptance, understanding, and a sense of belonging for individuals who might otherwise feel isolated.

Legal and Societal Changes: Legal advancements in recognizing same-sex marriage, anti-discrimination laws, and increased visibility of LGBT figures in media have positively influenced societal attitudes. However, there are still regions and cultures where legal protections and social acceptance lag behind, contributing to ongoing challenges for the LGBT community.

Understanding the psychosocial status of the LGBT community involves acknowledging the diversity within the community itself. Experiences vary based on factors like race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and geographical location. Advocacy for inclusive policies, mental health support, education, and fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding are crucial steps towards improving the well-being of the LGBT community.

Efforts to combat discrimination, provide accessible mental health services, promote inclusive education, and create supportive environments are essential in fostering a society where LGBT individuals can thrive without fear of stigma or discrimination, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more equitable community for all.

Assignment Two

Answer the following questions in about 250 words each. Each question carries 10 marks.

Q3) Elucidate gender differences in self construal.

Ans) Gender differences in self-construal refer to the ways in which individuals, based on their gender, perceive and define themselves in relation to others and the broader social context.

Independent vs. Interdependent Self-Construal: Studies suggest that men often exhibit a more independent self-construal, emphasizing personal attributes, achievements, and autonomy. They tend to define themselves based on their individual traits, abilities, and accomplishments, emphasizing personal goals and individuality. In contrast, women tend to display a more interdependent self-construal, placing greater emphasis on relationships, connections, and social context. They often define themselves in relation to others, valuing harmony, relationships, and communal goals.

Context and Relationships: Men, influenced by an independent self-construal, may prioritize personal achievements, assertiveness, and self-reliance. They might view themselves as distinct individuals irrespective of social connections. Women, with an interdependent self-construal, may prioritize nurturing relationships, communal values, and maintaining harmony within social groups. Their self-perception often integrates their roles within relationships and social contexts.

Cultural Influence: While these tendencies are observed in various cultures, the degree of emphasis on independent or interdependent self-construal can vary. Western cultures often prioritize individualism and independent self-construal, which might align more with traditional male self-perception. Collectivist cultures might emphasize interdependence, aligning more with traditional female self-perception.

Flexibility and Fluidity: It is important to note that these gender differences in self-construal are not absolute and can vary among individuals. Some men might exhibit interdependent traits, while some women might display characteristics associated with independent self-construal. Moreover, societal changes and shifts in cultural norms are leading to more fluid and flexible self-construal across genders.

Q4) Explain the psychoanalytical approach to understand the construction of gender differences.

Ans) The psychoanalytical approach to understanding the construction of gender differences stems from the work of Sigmund Freud and later theorists, such as Karen Horney and Nancy Chodorow.

Freudian Theory of Psychosexual Development: Freud proposed that individuals pass through stages of psychosexual development—oral, anal, phallic, latent, and genital—where conflicts and experiences shape personality. Of particular interest to gender development is the Oedipus and Electra complexes, where children experience unconscious desires and conflicts regarding their relationships with opposite-sex parents. According to Freud, resolution of these conflicts contributes to the development of gender identity and the internalization of societal gender roles.

Identification and Internalization: Freud suggested that children identify with and internalize qualities and behaviours from their same-sex parent during the process of resolving the Oedipus or Electra complex. This identification with the same-sex parent influences the development of gender identity and the adoption of gender-typical behaviours.

Object Relations Theory and Gender: Building on Freud's ideas, object relations theorists like Chodorow emphasized the role of early experiences within the family, particularly the mother-child relationship, in shaping gender differences. Chodorow highlighted that due to the primary caretaking role often assumed by mothers, girls develop a more relational and interdependent sense of self, while boys may develop a more individuated and separate sense of self.

Criticisms and Evolving Views: Critics of the psychoanalytical approach argue that it overemphasizes the influence of early childhood experiences and downplays the role of social and cultural factors in shaping gender identity and differences. Moreover, this approach has been criticized for its reliance on Freudian concepts that might not adequately address the complexity of gender.

Q5) Discuss the ways in which gender development is explained by gender schema theory.

Ans) Gender schema theory, proposed by Sandra Bem, offers an explanation of how gender development occurs through the lens of cognitive psychology. It suggests that individuals actively construct their understanding of gender by organizing information into mental structures called gender schemas.

Formation of Gender Schemas: From a young age, children begin to absorb information from their surroundings about what it means to be a boy or a girl. They internalize these societal messages and categorize information into mental schemas about gender. These schemas contain characteristics, roles, behaviours, and attributes they associate with each gender.

Cognitive Processing: Once formed, gender schemas act as cognitive filters through which individuals interpret and organize information. Children actively seek out and pay attention to information that aligns with their existing gender schemas, while disregarding or distorting information that contradicts these schemas. For example, a child with a strong "feminine" schema might pay more attention to toys or activities traditionally associated with girls.

Schema Maintenance and Influence: Gender schemas are not fixed but can be modified through new experiences and information. However, they tend to persist and influence perceptions, preferences, and behaviours. These schemas guide how individuals perceive themselves and others in terms of gender, influencing their choices, interests, and self-concept.

Implications for Gender Development: Gender schema theory suggests that children actively construct their gender identities based on societal cues and their own cognitive processing. It highlights the role of cognitive processes in shaping gender-typical behaviours and preferences by influencing the way individuals interpret and internalize gender-related information.

Assignment Three

Answer the following questions in about 100 words each. Each question carries 6 marks.

Q6) Sex, gender and sexual orientation.

Ans) Sex refers to biological attributes such as reproductive anatomy and chromosomes. Gender encompasses societal, cultural, and personal perceptions of masculinity and femininity. Sexual orientation relates to emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to others, such as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual orientations. While sex is typically categorized as male or female, gender includes a spectrum beyond binary definitions. Sexual orientation is diverse and independent of gender; it varies among individuals. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in recognizing the complexity and diversity of human identities and experiences.

Q7) Gender equity.

Ans) Gender equity refers to fairness and impartiality in providing opportunities, resources, and treatment regardless of gender. It involves ensuring equal access to rights, education, employment, and representation without discrimination or bias. It goes beyond equality, aiming to address historical disparities and structural barriers that affect different genders. Achieving gender equity involves creating inclusive environments, policies, and practices that empower individuals of all genders to participate fully and equally in social, economic, and political spheres. It promotes fairness, justice, and a level playing field for everyone, irrespective of gender identity.

Q8) Ecofeminism.

Ans) Ecofeminism is a movement that explores the interconnectedness of the oppression of women and the degradation of nature. It highlights parallels between the exploitation of the environment and the subjugation of women, emphasizing the need to address both issues. Ecofeminism critiques patriarchal structures that exploit and dominate both women and nature, advocating for environmental conservation, social justice, and gender equality. It promotes a holistic perspective, recognizing the importance of caring for the environment while challenging systems that perpetuate inequalities based on gender and ecological exploitation.

Q9) Morbidity mortality paradox.

Ans) The Morbidity-Mortality Paradox refers to the phenomenon where certain demographic groups, often marginalized or disadvantaged, exhibit higher rates of illness or morbidity but unexpectedly lower mortality rates compared to more advantaged groups. This paradox challenges traditional health expectations, indicating that while these groups experience more health issues, they do not necessarily have higher death rates. Factors like access to healthcare, social determinants, resilience, and healthcare disparities contribute to this complex interplay between morbidity (illness) and mortality (death) rates among different populations, prompting further investigation into health disparities and the impact of social and environmental factors on health outcomes.

Q10)Romantic relationship in digital age.

Ans) Romantic relationships in the digital age are shaped by technology, altering how people meet, connect, and maintain intimacy. Dating apps, social media, and online communication platforms offer vast opportunities to find partners but also pose challenges like increased choice and potential for miscommunication. Digital tools facilitate long-distance relationships and constant connectivity, yet they can also impact trust and privacy. Balancing digital interaction with in-person connection becomes crucial, as does navigating boundaries and communication styles influenced by online platforms. Overall, the digital landscape offers both benefits and complexities, shaping the dynamics of modern romantic relationships.