Walking through the toy section of a large retail store, you notice that two aisles are labeled “Girls’ Toys” and “Boys’ Toys.” The girls’ aisle features dolls and cookware, while the boys’ aisle features toy cars and toolsets. Analyze the effects these differences have on perceptions of gender.

What will be an ideal response?

Gender role socialization is the process by which children learn how to appropriately perform the gender roles associated with their sex. Toys are an early way in which gender differences are communicated to children. In this example, the girls’ aisle is emphasizing the traditional domestic gender roles assigned for women. The boys’ aisle, on the other hand, emphasizes traditionally male pastimes, such as automobiles and construction or repair work. This division reflects traditional gender schema, or the ways in which we organize the world around masculinity and femininity. It suggests that these are appropriate or natural ways for boys and girls to behave.
KEY: Learning Objective: 3-2: Explain the influences on the perception process