Problem:
Rewrite this into 250 laymans terms make sure to include citations and references
The institutional approach to gender, marriage, and family emphasizes how social structures, norms, and roles shape our understandings and practices of gender (Ryle, 2023). This perspective highlights that family and marriage are not merely personal choices but are influenced by larger societal institutions that dictate expectations of gender roles and relationships. For instance, traditional ideals often prescribe that men are the primary breadwinners while women take on caregiving roles, thereby perpetuating specific power dynamics and behaviors within the family unit.
Reflecting on my childhood experiences, gender roles were distinctly outlined within my household. Chores were typically divided along gender lines: my father handled outdoor maintenance and finances, while my mother managed cooking and cleaning tasks. This division extended to interpersonal interactions; for example, familial decision-making often favored my father, reflecting the dominant patriarchal structure. Such experiences cultivated specific beliefs about gender in my mind-women were nurturers, while men were providers.
Now, as I organize my own family and household, I find that my approach has shifted significantly. Influenced by contemporary ideas of equality and shared responsibilities, my partner and I divide household tasks equitably, fostering a collaborative environment rather than adhering to traditional roles. While I have retained some familial customs, such as family dinners, the overall structure aims for inclusivity. Hence, my childhood experiences have informed but also transformed my understanding and enactment of gender roles in my current family life, signaling a progressive shift towards egalitarianism (Ryle, 2023). Need Assignment Help?