Different social roles, which have been assigned to male and female on the basis of physical appearances by society; is termed as gender inequality. Sociological theories have different perspectives on mentioned social phenomenon. Sociological theories explain, the impact of gender inequality on different aspects of society. Whether, gender roles have positive impact on, individuals, groups, institutions, social structure or, it may disorganize social structure and could create conflict among groups or, individuals. It also explains, how gender roles affect social interaction amongst individuals within a society.
Structural-functional perspective;
Division of Labor
Structural functionalist believe that, division of labor is effective to attain specific goal. In traditional societies; man was responsible to finance household expenses in family. Whereas, woman was responsible for household chores and taking care of children. Therefore, structural-functionalist considers, gender based division of labor effective; for the smooth functioning of family. Firstly, husband and wife will be specialized in tasks, associated with their roles. Secondly, different roles and responsibilities will eradicate competition between husband and wife. Lastly, distinct gender roles force spouses to depend on each other; which will strengthen family bond.
Conflict theorist believe that, division of labor give power and control to few groups or people, over the scarce resources within a society. Of course, if female specialize in household tasks, she will not have power and control over resources. However, Structural-functional perspective is based on the assumption, each functioning institution contributes for the stability and functioning of society. If one institution does not function properly, it will disorganize entire social structure. Therefore, Gender based division of labor is considered necessary for smooth functioning of Family and society.
Conflict perspective;
Sexism and Discrimination
Conflict theorist believe that, men use gender inequality to get power and control over scarce resources. The argument is supported by two theories which are, sexism and discrimination. Sexism refer to the belief, that men do have the capacity for some jobs but women don’t; due to biological differences. Therefore, men and women are treated differently within a society. According to conflict theorists, sexism is a weapon used by men to create and sustain stratification. If men exclude women from the competition on the basis of sexism. Men will have absolute control and power over scarce resources.
Discrimination is the outcome of sexism. Giving preference to men over women, for any occupation on the basis of physical appearance is called discrimination. For instance, if Organizations prefer to hire men compare to women. Paying less salary to women compare to men, for the same job. Judging people capabilities for profession and education, on the basis of biological makeup is called, gender discrimination.
Symbolic interaction Perspective
Symbolic interactionist are interested, in determining the sources and impacts of sexism in routine social interaction. In 1998 Karin martin conducted a research; to determine how boys and girls learn gender roles in schools. Her research suggested that, in schools teachers treat children differently on the basis of their physical appearances. Boys were restrained from playing dress up however, they are interested in doing so. Boys were allowed to play rough games; shouting and rolling on ground. On the other hand, girls were restrained from such activities. Girls have to talk in lower voice and raise their hands before asking question. Adulthood behavior is reflection of normative behavior; which is learned in early age by children through social interaction. Boys and girls are socialized differently in social institutions, according to presumed societal roles.
Another study was conducted in sleep away camp on gender inequality. Which suggests that, those boys attained popularity in camp, who were good in athletic activities. They used physical strength to endure their popularity by, bullying weaker children and sexually harassing girls. Moreover, popular boys were aggressive towards, any boy they view to hold, “feminine traits” and girl they view to pertain, “masculine traits”. They led the other boys to act aggressive towards them too, for maintaining their status.
