Sociological Perspectives on Gender

Sociological perspectives on gender examine how society influences the roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male or female. These perspectives, such as functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism, analyze how gender shapes social interactions, power dynamics, and institutions. They highlight that gender is socially constructed—meaning it varies across cultures and changes over time—rather than solely determined by biology. Understanding these perspectives helps us see how societal norms and structures influence individual identities and promote or challenge gender inequalities.