Reference no: EM13306683

Myths exist in all aspects of culture. In this discussion, we’ll be looking at gender roles—generally accepted assumptions about males and females.

Read more about Erving Goffman

Read more about Mary Pipher

Sociologist Erving Goffman observed social expectations for males from American contemporary life. In 1963, he enumerated a list of characteristics that seemed to typify the ideal male during that time. Keep in mind that Goffman was recording observations of this time and not stating a personal opinion. As you read these conclusions, consider if you still see these features as relevant and valued by American society. Goffman states, “In an important sense there is only one complete unblushing male in America: a young, married, white, urban, northern, heterosexual, Protestant, father, of college education, fully employed, of good complexion, weight, and height, and a recent record in sports . . . any man who fails to qualify in any one of these ways is likely to view himself—during moments at least—as unworthy, incomplete, and inferior.”

Psychologist Mary Pipher argues America is poisoning girls with pressures to maintain difficult standards of beauty and behavior. She says, “Adolescence is when girls experience social pressure to put aside their authentic selves and to display only a small portion of their gifts.”

First, do you see these definitions as accurate or inaccurate? Why or why not? What are some specific ways through which these perceptions are perpetuated? Provide some specific examples.