Gender roles in domestic sphere in modern industrial societies are more or less a reflection of patriarchal values. Critically evaluate.

Gender roles in domestic sphere is born out of gender occupational allocation given by patriarchal values. Man and woman compose, 'two differently valued terms'.

The effect of patriarchal values on gender roles in domestic sphere is highlighted by the fact that 'male prestige' is linked to 'public roles', whereas female prestige is defined as in relation to men. Thus it typifies encompassing of female structures within male structures. The cultural valuation is thus foundation of gender roles.

Though women's involvement in public roles have increased with their entry in 'paid labour market', yet they continue to shoulder the main responsibility for housework. Thus, homecare is typified as primary domain of women and economic empowerment has not been able to change it completely though domestic division of roles is being renegotiated.

Sylvia Walby argues that state and employment have taken place of 'individual male patriarchy' in structures of patriarchy.

Women hold no control over resources whether they work in paid market or not. They are seen as second fiddle and as a 'help to man's attempt to secure economic security for family'.

Also, patriarchal values seek to control sexuality of women, sex role stereotyping has led to occupational segregation like women in healthcare work and this has made patriarchal division of gender roles in domestic sphere even stringent.

Modern industrial societies have not been able to change the basic patriarchal values - power and control.