Saurabh SharmaAIR 23 · CSE 2023 · 302 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
The concepts of 'I' and 'Me' were proposed by G.H. Mead. The 'I' represents the impulsive, spontaneous self, while the 'Me' represents the socialized aspect of the self that mirrors the expectations of society (the generalized other).
Gender socialization acts as a primary filter through which this development occurs differently for men and women:
Body · points
1. Shaping the 'Me' through Gender Norms:
- Internalization of expectations: From childhood, boys and girls are socialized into different scripts. Boys are often encouraged to be assertive, independent, and goal-oriented (the 'instrumental' role), while girls are encouraged to be empathetic, nurturing, and relationship-oriented (the 'expressive' role).
- The Looking-Glass Self: The 'Me' is formed by how individuals perceive society’s reaction to their behavior. If a girl is praised for being 'polite' and 'quiet', her 'Me' incorporates these as essential features of her identity.
2. Impact on the 'I':
- Censorship of Impulses: The 'I' is the spontaneous drive. However, societal norms regulate what impulses are acceptable for each gender. For instance, expressing anger may be seen as a sign of strength for men but a sign of emotional instability for women. Thus, the 'I' in women is often conditioned to censor itself based on gendered expectations, leading to a different expression of spontaneity compared to men.
3. Differentiation in Adulthood:
- Workplace and Public Sphere: Men's 'Me' is often reinforced through competitive environments, further strengthening an identity linked to professional achievement. Women's 'Me' often carries the 'double burden' of domestic responsibility, making their identity perpetually tethered to relational caregiving.
Conclusion:
Close · a summary
Gender socialization ensures that the 'Me' is not just a general social product, but a gendered one. By internalizing different norms, men and women develop distinct selves, where the 'I' is constantly negotiated against a 'Me' that has been sculpted by societal expectations of masculinity and femininity.