The land of opportunity?: Gender in the United States of America

Abstract

Early studies have laid the foundation for research looking at gender roles, stereotypes, and equality in the United States of America (USA). Investigations into gender roles and stereotypes across the twentieth century provide a baseline for examining current views of women and men. In the USA, and in many other countries, gender inequities can still be seen in male-female participation in politics, education, work, and athletics, despite great increases in opportunities for women in these arenas. Although some inequality still exists, increased opportunities for women have led to more diverse gender roles in the family. Despite conflicting messages from society as to the proper roles of men and women in the family, research has shown that devising a partnership and system that works for each individual family has led to well-functioning couples, no matter what role each parent plays in the family. Along with early studies of adult gender roles and stereotypes, research looking at how children acquire gender knowledge has been carried out in the USA. In addition to siblings, peers also play a role in gender socialization. Children appear to learn gender roles and stereotypes without direct instruction, suggesting that gender-related messages are learned in the context of the family and in social interactions with peers. Research has examined how unhealthy gender-related behavior, such as violence against women and mental health difficulties, differently affect men and women.