Gender Expression and Social Norms Essay - 804 Words

Around the world gender is genuinely seen as strictly male or female. If you step out of this â€Å"social norm,† you could be considered an outcast. This disassociation includes, biological males/females, interssexed, and transgendered individuals. These people are severely suppressed by society because their gender identification, behaviors, and even their activities deviate from the norm. Most Americans are exceedingly devoted to the concept that there are only two sexes. Therefore, the constrictive American ideals of male and female gender identities inhibits growth and acceptance of gender expression. Each gender is separated by untold rules or guidelines that they must abide by. This in turn creates inner tensions that inhibit†¦show more content†¦These traits are typically given to boys, which, Billy had not embodied. For girls, stereotypes still apply, but they are often less enforced. Many girls are able to dress, act, and be who they want to be, but these ab ilities can come with a price. Some girls are made fun of for being too masculine or, in other words, a â€Å"tomboy.† This, like the boys, can create inner tensions that inhibit their personal growth. Girls are also considered to be shy, weak, and submissive. These stereotypes vary from person to person, and do not apply to just one specific gender. Many â€Å"gender neutral† activities and clothes are commonly accepted in America. This creates more of an accepting, and open environment for girls while leaving the boys with the troublesome route. In earlier times, Americans were once dominated by the belief that there was only one sex, the optimum physical form being male. Hermaphrodites, or now known as interssexed, were considered and looked at as sub-standard humans who had fallen short of maleness. Interssexed is a social status assigned at birth to a person that has both female and male characteristics. For first time parents, hearing the question â€Å"is it a boy or girl?,† genuinely is a simple answer, but for some parents with interssexed children, it can be very problematic. Around the world hundreds of babies are born each year where their gender isn’t clear. Prompt surgeries areShow MoreRelatedExamining Sub-Cultures: The Goth Culture1665 Words   |  7 Pagesinherently subject to collaborative norms and values that have been instilled in humanity, with the consideration that this varies across cultures. 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