In modern America, how does society define 'masculine' and 'feminine'? Do these characterizations appear restrictive? If so, how? If not, why not?
Read these sites.
http://web2.airmail.net/ktrig246/out_of_cave/mf.html
www.ta-tutor.com/webpdf/ram184.pdf
What do you think?
These sources seem a bit outdated to me. What about some more recent material?
I suspect that cultural attitudes haven't changed a lot since those articles were written. Also remember, that each of us only sees a narrow bit of "society." As a liberal, northern, older woman in a medium sized city, I'm sure that my perspective differs from a southern middle-aged man. It's probably different than a west coast college student or an urban 40s something.
This site is the only recent site I found that begins to address this issue.
http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/asr/v007/7.2unit07.html
Thanks for your help!
You're very welcome.
Defining and characterizing 'masculine' and 'feminine' in modern America can be complex, and there is no single definitive answer as society's understanding of these terms often varies across time, culture, and individual perspectives. To get a broader understanding and perspective on this topic, we can explore various sources such as sociological studies, cultural analysis, and personal experiences.
One way to begin exploring this is by examining societal norms and expectations. You can start by reviewing scholarly articles or books on gender and sociology. Look for sources that analyze how gender roles are constructed and the expectations placed on individuals based on their perceived gender. Additionally, examining public discourse, media representations, and popular culture can provide insights into how masculinity and femininity are portrayed in society.
By delving into these sources, you can identify several general characterizations associated with 'masculine' and 'feminine' traits. Historically, masculine traits have often been associated with qualities such as strength, assertiveness, independence, and competitiveness, while feminine traits have been linked to qualities like nurturing, empathy, compassion, and emotional expressiveness. However, it is important to note that these are broad generalizations and not fixed definitions.
The extent to which these characterizations are seen as restrictive or not is subjective and can vary from person to person. While some individuals might find these expectations confining or limiting, others may find them validating or aspirational. It's crucial to recognize that everyone's experiences and perspectives regarding gender identity are unique, and not all individuals conform to societal expectations.
To get a comprehensive understanding of how society defines 'masculine' and 'feminine' in modern America and whether these characterizations appear restrictive, you could also engage in conversations with people from various backgrounds and gender identities. Listening to diverse perspectives and lived experiences can provide valuable insights into the societal impact of these definitions.
Remember, as societal norms and perspectives continue to evolve, so too does the understanding of gender identity and expression. Therefore, it is essential to approach this topic with an open mind, respect for diversity, and an ongoing commitment to learning and understanding.