Assignment 4

1) What does Cherlin mean when he argues that gender differences are built into the system i.e. "society." Give an example from the text of how gender is systematic.

·         Gender differences are built into the system through socialization. From the moment a child is born, they are socialized into the appropriate gender role for their sex. This process of gender identity is learned by example from parents, teachers, peers and the media. Depending on the norms of a particular society, that child will be brought up to fit the preconceived notions of what they feel it means to be a man or a woman. We can conclude from this that behavior preserves identity. For example, if a little boy is playing with a doll and his parents scold him for it (because that’s not what “boys do”) and they replace the doll with a truck instead, they are encouraging stereotypical behavior for a young boy. There are many similar examples that help children categorize appropriate male and female behaviors so they can act accordingly.

2) Give an example of "doing gender" from your own life. Had you ever thought about this idea before?

·         The only reason I have ever thought about the idea of “doing gender” is because I am currently enrolled in a sociology of gender class. It is amazing how we can go through the day with constant interactions that reinforce our gender roles and not even be aware of it. An example from my own life would be from when I went on a missions trip to Guatemala. Our purpose was to build a Sunday School room for a poor community. While I tried to assist in carrying cinder blocks and mixing cement, apparently I was to slow or not as capable as the men. Instead I ended up spending most of the trip taking care of the children and conducting Sunday school because I was “better suited” for that task.

3) From chapters 3 & 6 in the Cherlin text: define sexual identity in your own words. You may paraphrase/summarize Cherlin, but do not directly copy his words.

·         Sexual identity is another way to define ones sense of self. Whether it is heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual, each identity consists of a particular set of feelings, attitudes, and behaviors toward sex.

4) Next give one reason why social constructionists argue that sexual identity or gender are socially constructed.

·         No matter what society is looked at, there will always be a variation in the definition of sexual identity and gender; thus it is socially constructed.  Cherlin provides an example in the book where a man in a Latin American society that partakes in passive homosexual behavior would be considered homosexual, because the passive quality it identified with women. On the other hand, the male penetrating would not be thought of as homosexual because penetrating is associated with masculinity.

5) Last, why is it difficult to find accurate data on sexuality as a researcher? If you were asked to participate in a study on sexuality would you answer truthfully? Would you participate at all? What kinds of things would you want to hear from the researcher about how your privacy would be protected if you did participate?

·         It is difficult to find accurate data on sexuality as a researcher because not everyone’s sexuality coincides with the norms and values of society. If asked, I would participate in a study on sexuality because I am comfortable with my sexuality. However, because it is a private matter I would definitely want my identity to be protected. I would participate as long as I was assured that I would remain anonymous.