$Unique_ID{BRK00294}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Can Parents' Actions Influence Their Daughter's Femininity?}
$Subject{parents femininity role models Community Social gender socialization
nonverbal clues reinforce appropriate behavior behaviors genders}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can Parents' Actions Influence Their Daughter's Femininity?


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QUESTION:  Is it true that parents' actions can influence their daughter's
femininity?

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ANSWER:  Femininity and masculinity is part of role socialization, the way all
of us learn the subtle and not-so-subtle points of the gender role that
society assigns men and women.  Parents have a strong role in gender role
socialization, primarily by serving as role models.  Children see their
parents taking care of the house, going to work, and engaging leisure
activities.  These nonverbal lessons teach children how adult men and women
behave in society.  Although girls are exposed to both masculine and feminine
behaviors, they pick up a larger proportion of the feminine behaviors that
they see.
     Parents reinforce nonverbal clues by reinforcing what they think is
appropriate behavior for their daughters.  But a narrowly defined view of
what is feminine can become a straightjacket.  Too much restriction can limit
the activities that a girl feels comfortable doing and reduce her choices in
careers and accomplishments as she becomes older.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.