Men Vs. Women

For many years, men have been viewed as superior to women in society. Men were seen as the strong providers and caretakers of the family. Men worked outside of the home, earning money and creating new relationships. While men were playing these major roles in society, women were pushed into the shadows. Women were expected to stay in the home, care for children, cook, clean, and take care of other household chores. Although this expectation of these two roles have changed in today's society, discrimination toward women have become more evident.

Gender inequality exists everywhere in the Unites States, especially socially. Because of this inequality, stereotypes began to emerge. These stereotypes limit women in society because they are afraid of being labeled. Feminist activist Betty Friedan states, “The problem that has no name — which is simply the fact that American women are kept from growing to their full human capacities — is taking a far greater toll on the physical and mental health of our country than any known disease.” If a woman takes on a more masculine role in society, she is considered a "dyke" or "tomboy". If a woman takes on a more feminine role in society, she is considered "girly" "uppity". Women who take on the more feminine role are usually praised or admired for doing so. By taking on this role, women are seen as more womanly. If a woman decides to partake in manly activities, such as certain sports, she is not considered as womanly. Physical appearance also plays a role in these stereotypes. These stereotypes develop due to the pictures that society paints of the ideal woman. 


These stereotypes influence the roles that women choose to play in society. Jobs also influence stereotypes. If an "uppity" woman works a job that is seen as mainly for males, she would be seen as "bitchy". This stereotype applies to women in politics as well. If a "tomboy" woman works a job that is seen as mainly for males, she will still be discriminated against.