Week 1 Journal

I think the first week's of reading assignments were interesting to say the least. Sex and gender plays such a large role in today's society, but I never truly realized it or thought deeply about it until the start of this class. In the introduction of "The Kaleidoscope of Gender,"it mentioned gender stereotypes and how one can debunk these thoughts, which tend to be rigid, oversimplified, exaggerated beliefs about femininity and masculinity.

It goes on to talk about the stereotype, women talk more than men. Culture is a large part of everything we do in a daily setting and I think this has a large impact on all different stereotypes whether they are in fact true or not. The book also explains we do not become gendered alone, instead society around us helps shape our gender roles and ultimately the way we are as human beings.

Now I know this is just the beginning of the class and our readings, but I find it fascinating how society has such a strong impact on us a whole and places such strong labels on individuals it is almost sickening (at least from my point of view). I think a point I will stress continuously throughout this class is the ability for one to be an individual and not follow others. In fact, don't be afraid to express yourself and do what YOU love as opposed to doing something to fit in or just follow your gender role or to fill a stereotype.

From personal experience I have learned that it is better to be yourself and stay true rather to fit in. I remember (long story short) I was at a friends house and we set a teddy bear on fire. I primarily did this to fit in with the group and feel accepted but then later got in major trouble from my parents. I am so grateful for this experience because it taught me not to try to conform to society or try to act extra masculine to be accepted but rather be independent and not rely on other's acceptance to feel whole.

I apologize for the rant, but I am excited to be in this class and share my thoughts along the way!

P.S. I think this image is a perfect example of the way our society views gender roles as a whole. Most (including myself) would be confused at the site of this image, but it just goes to show what society and our culture has done to us that we see this and think this is wrong when in fact nothing is wrong with it. It is own personal choice. :)