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For many years society has embraced the idea that the differences between men and women are biologically determined. Yet our traditions, media, and peers influence and define gender roles. Society pressures individuals to act in certain ways based on gender. Our sex is determined by genetics while our gender is programmed by social customs. Traditional views pigeonhole women as tender and loving mothers. Men, on the other hand, are seen as aggressive hunters and the dominant members of the family. People who support these more traditional views believe men and women are happier fulfilling rather than fighting the roles nature determined for them. While traditional views provide a foundation, modern times force us to redefine and refine gender roles on a family-by-family basis. What works for one family may not work for another family. As gender roles in American society evolve, it is still important to delegate tasks so the family operates smoothly. Establishing gender roles in families is similar to organizing and assigning a schedule of daily tasks.
Letty Cottin Pogrebin of Family and Politics once stated “If the family were a boat, it would be a canoe that makes no progress unless everyone paddles.” This statement helps us visualize the importance of gender roles when developing structure/stability in a family. Many believe that it is “not fair” for one parent to be the breadwinner and the other to stay home with the children. However, as mentioned previously, establishing a family is similar to organizing a schedule of daily tasks. For example, in a successful business employees are assigned specific duties they need to fulfill day in and day out. If they slip up, then others will have to pick up the slack. It is the same scenario with families. If one parent loses his/her job, the other parent may need to pick up the pieces and start providing. Do not confuse what has just been said with sexism. There is no mention of which parent...