by : Aayush Pramanik
Gender “Norms” and Stereotypes
As part of society and as an individual, we all have our own unique identities. For example, our hair color or our behavior and demeanor towards others. Yet, there are many factors that can be acquired when it comes to capitalizing on what is the “identity” of a person - gender is one of the prevalent factors of them all. The gender of an individual has always been the most common, unless the first question that we are asked. Yet, the sensitivity and stigma around the roles of certain genders - are so much more than just a question. A gender role is a set of behaviors and attitudes considered by society to be “acceptable” or “proper” for a certain gender. Ever since a child is born into this world - the newborn has to be subject to external opinions of society and often their own families as well, when it comes to certain things they should like and do. These “suggestions” are always bluntly based on your biological sex.
If your biological sex is male - you are criticized profusely about your physical growth and certain “manly’ interests that are a necessary asset, which is inculcated into children from a young age. An example of such would be that boys should always be over 6 feet in height and have the stature of a “greek god” while maintaining a rough and confident emotion within themselves. As a male myself, we are always under the constant pressure of making ourselves interested in things such as football or rugby - there is always this connotation of being rough and tough by surrounding yourself with people and things that influence you about the same. Men are often expected to be confident and aggressive in whatever they wish to accomplish in life, while their emotional side of things is often disregarded as being “too soft”. Masculinity and all that is to it - has been quite toxic for many years now. Not only are men subject to the entire “macho” and “manly” expectation of society. But, they are also criticized about the same - within the same society. If a man does have an outburst, everyone deems them as “temperamental” and “hotheaded”. The constant struggle between the 2 loose ends, is quite challenging and frustrating for many individuals in society. Men are also subject to the unsaid role of the “leader” or the “flag-bearer”. Men are often made the face of acts- usually intended for their gender , without the knowledge of whether those individuals are ready to take on the presumable roles set by others. At the end of the day, every person is human and they should always remember who they are and embrace what they can and cannot do/be.
Illustrated by : Ujjawal
When it comes to the stereotypes associated with women, the judgment and tendency of assumptions also arise. Society has always expected women to be soft by nature, loving, kind, and “obedient”. Yet, women are so much more than that. Everyone shouldn't have the obligation to fit into the “perfect” standards set by a society - which in itself has diversity at its core. A society made up of so many different cultures and ethnicities- should also be open to a woman shaping their own identity. A woman can be strong and rough if needed and wanted - but, that is completely her choice. A woman does not have to follow absurd rules such as “staying covered up” all the time or “not staying out in the dark”. Although these examples are quite vague and might not seem too extensive, they do exemplify the societal suggestions of cautions for women in the world. These opinions might be derived from genuine concern- yet it is the extent of equal concern that puts women in an uncomfortable scenario. A man is never told to cover up or to not stay out late, often without any justification or genuine concern. This relates to how men are perceived in society, as being strong and independent, whilst women are buried under the concern and worry of individuals who have nothing to do with their lives. A woman is also subject to expectations of being the shadow or “being the woman behind the man”. They are not expected to ginormously excel at their interests or speak up for what they stand for. Every woman has so much potential and is so unique, that stereotypes or norms themselves become negligible - if a woman decides to listen to their heart.
All that said, everything is easier said than done. Every individual does have a subconscious mindset of whether they are “appropriate” according to the standards of society. We all tend to “tweak” ourselves at some point in our lives- just because we might be insecure or concerned about fitting into the stereotypes. Yet, Pushing the boundaries and getting what you deserve- whether it is independence or respect, is always advised. Your gender should not become a barrier for you when it doesn't have to. You can achieve and earn a spot wherever your heart desires. “If you can't find a seat at the table, go ahead and build your own!”