Gender Role Socialisation - GCSE Sociology Definition

Gender role socialisation refers to the process by which individuals learn and internalise the expected behaviours, attitudes, and roles associated with their assigned gender within a particular culture or society. Through socialisation, boys and girls are often encouraged to adopt traits and pursue activities deemed suitable for their gender, facilitating societal expectations about masculinity and femininity.

In the context of GCSE Sociology, this involves understanding how various social institutions—such as family, education, media, and peers—play a crucial role in shaping our perceptions of gender norms from a young age. This concept is important for understanding how gender identities and inequalities are constructed and maintained in society.