Sex roles: a psychological perspective

We are all familiar with the stereotypically traditional life histories of the two sexes. What follows is a brief synopsis of these myths. Though ‘biology is destiny’, in this view, it is necessary to make sure that ‘boys will be boys’ by socialising them to be adventurous, competitive, and independent, and ‘girls will be girls’ if they are taught to be considerate, sociable, and passive. As childhood fades into adolescence, boys are inculcated with values and skills appropriate to their future breadwinning role by encouragement to excel at school and sport, while girls are prepared for a future as wife and mother by emphasis on interpersonal relationships. Boys look to their possible livelihoods, girls to their possible marriage partners. Women may work prior to the arrival of the first child in an occupation akin to their familial service role (e.g., nurse, teacher, secretary), but not thereafter. The husband/father is employed full-time for the term of his natural work-life, the wife/mother is a housewife; hence, his work and familial responsibilities range from the front door outwards, hers go from the front door inwards.