Gender norms are ideas about how men and women should act. According to an article, ” These ideas can be wrong and hurtful. Let’s look at seven mistakes people make about gender norms.
1. Thinking Gender and Sex Are the Same
Many believe gender and sex are the same. But sex is about body parts, and gender is about roles society gives to men and women. Mixing them up can confuse.
2. Believing Stereotypes Are Always True
Some think all men are strong and all women are gentle. These are stereotypes and are not always true. Believing them can limit what people can do.
3. Ignoring Cultural Differences in Gender Norms
In Nigeria, different groups have different gender norms. Some groups have women leaders, while others don’t. Ignoring these differences can lead to misunderstandings.
4. Thinking Gender Norms Don’t Change
Some believe gender norms stay the same forever. But they can change over time. For example, more women now own businesses in Nigeria.
5. Believing Media Shows True Gender Roles
The media often shows men as leaders and women as helpers. This doesn’t reflect real life and can keep old gender norms alive.
6. Thinking It Don’t Affect Violence
Some think gender norms don’t lead to violence. But in Nigeria, almost one in three women have faced physical harm, partly because of these norms.
7. Believing Gender Norms Don’t Impact Progress
Some say gender norms don’t affect a country’s growth. But Nigeria ranks low in gender equality, which can slow down progress.
Conclusion
Understanding these mistakes helps us see how gender norms affect everyone. To learn more and find helpful documents, visit genderpedia.ng/shop.
