OPPapers.com

Gender Differences

Recently, women have begun to see changes in their role in society.   Although girls and women are starting to receive messages about being strong, independent women, too often they are also still receiving messages indicating women should be fragile and domestic. In an article titled "Leader stereotypes match men more than women," Catherine Kleiman quotes Alice Eagly, a psychology professor at Northwestern University who says that "it's bound to be challenging for women because there's a built-in role conflict" (1998). The contradicting ideas are conveyed in the media as well as in early childhood.
Women's new role in society is focused on independence.   Society has found that women are able to thrive without set limitations and expectations despite earlier notions.   The media no longer focuses primarily on superficial aspects of women but also on a more profound basis.   In Ever After, a modern version of Cinderella, Danielle is respected not only for her beauty but also for her intelligence and distinct personality.   She shares her knowledge of democracy, education, and equality with Henry, the prince.   Danielle's actions represent the new forms of empowerment modern women strive for.   Women are now encouraged to educate themselves beyond the domestic elements.   Advertisements share this idea of a "new woman."   Hamburger Helper ads typically present working women who are also able to make dinner for the family. In "Beauty and the Beast of Advertising," Jean Kilbourne recognizes that it is somewhat common to see a "liberated woman" with "independence and self esteem"(2000, p. 239).   Similar ideas of independence are portrayed in the business world.   New positions are shaped for strong-willed women who are able to take on more responsibility.   These new roles for women are continuing to gain acceptance.        
Despite the modern views of women, the traditional concepts of what it means to be a woman are still being taught in the early stages of development....