Throughout history, society has held rigid beliefs and expectations surrounding gender roles and identities

1.  Throughout history, society has held rigid beliefs and expectations surrounding gender roles and identities. These societal messages often dictate that males and females should conform to distinct behaviors, interests, and appearances. This perpetuation of gender norms can lead to harmful stereotypes and discrimination against individuals who do not fit into these traditional binaries. As a college student, I understand the importance of challenging these societal messages and promoting gender equality and acceptance for all individuals.”Gender refers to the economic, social, political, and cultural attributes and opportunities associated with being women and men. The social definitions of what it means to be a woman or a man vary among cultures and change over time. Gender is a sociocultural expression of particular characteristics and roles that are associated with certain groups of people with reference to their sex and sexuality”

My first concept of gender was formed at a young age, influenced by the media, family, and the larger community around me. I was taught that boys and girls were fundamentally different and that certain traits or characteristics were inherently masculine or feminine. This early understanding of gender limited my perception and understanding of the diverse spectrum of identities that exist beyond the binary. However, as I grew older and became exposed to different perspectives and ideologies, I began to question and challenge these traditional beliefs. I now recognize that gender is not a rigid construct but rather a fluid and complex phenomenon that is shaped by individual experiences and identities. As a college student, I am committed to advocating for gender equality and supporting those who may not conform to societal expectations. By promoting inclusivity and diversity, we can create a more equitable and accepting world for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.I found myself conforming to traditional gender roles set by society. From a young age, I was taught to be nurturing, caring, and submissive, qualities typically associated with femininity. I was encouraged to play with dolls, wear dresses, and prioritize my appearance. As I got older, I internalized these expectations and began to adapt my behavior to fit the mold of what it meant to be a woman. Despite my resistance to conforming to these stereotypes, I realized that societal pressure and norms played a significant role in shaping my understanding of gender roles. Over time, I found myself falling in line with these roles in order to avoid judgment and criticism from others. However, as I continue to educate myself and challenge societal norms, I am learning to embrace my individuality and break free from these limiting expectations.

jhpiego. (2019). Gender Concepts and Definitions | Gender Analysis Toolkit For Health Systems | Jhpiego. Gender Analysis Toolkit for Health Systems | Jhpiego. https://gender.jhpiego.org/analysistoolkit/gender-concepts-and-definitions/

question for the class: do you think with the new view of gender do you think that you need to reevaluate yourself and your view?

2.      The concept of gender roles was taught to me by my parents, who raised me to understand the difference between male and female as far back as I can remember. They always taught me that God created you to be a girl and my brother a boy, I was raised in a Christian household and I am still a Christian now. Therefore, the message I received about gender is in the Bible. When Christians think about gender, we know what God has taught us. In 1 Corinthians 7:2 “But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.” I believe in the word of God and will never stray from that. Therefore, that’s what and HOW I believe in society today. However, not everyone think like me and I am fine with that because we do live in a world of many different genders both Trans, Bi, Queer, Straight, etc. I will never disrespect anyone for what they are or chose to be. This is just who I am.  

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