Describe the social issue
Briefly describe the social issue you selected in Week 1.
Explain what social norms are related to the social issue and who is affected by these social norms.
Explain whether anyone benefits from these social norms and how.
Describe what might happen if these social norms were challenged.
Sample Solution
As per our discussion in Week 1, the social issue I will be focusing on is gender inequality.
Social Norms and Gender Inequality
Several social norms contribute to gender inequality. Here are a few examples:
- Gender roles: Traditional expectations dictate "masculine" and "feminine" behaviors. Men are expected to be breadwinners and prioritize careers, while women are expected to focus on childcare and domestic duties.
- The gender pay gap: Women often earn less than men for equal work, reinforcing the notion that their work is less valuable.
- Beauty standards: Societal expectations for female appearance can be unrealistic and pressure women to prioritize looks over other aspects of their lives.
Who is Affected?
These social norms primarily affect women, limiting their opportunities for education, career advancement, and economic independence. However, men can also be constrained by rigid gender roles, expected to suppress emotions or forgo childcare responsibilities.
Full Answer Section