LESSON 1.2: Power, power relations, masculinity, femininity and gender

6. Your friend has a negative view of the world and about themself. They see only a bleak future. Write a short paragraph on the benefits of positive thinking. You may refer to the article by Brian Tracy.

Any FOUR related benefits which include a brief explanation.

• Decide to be happy and develop a positive attitude because a happy

person or an optimist tries to find the positive in every problem or

difficulty.  • Start to think positive thoughts which will help you to look for the valuable lesson that you can learn from every setback or difficulty.  • Train your mind to avoid thinking negative thoughts because the feel-

good hormones (endorphins) released by a happy brain will let you

look at the world differently.  • Surround yourself with positive people and eventually you will adopt their positive attitude.  (4 × 1) = (4)

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LESSON 1.2: Power, power relations, masculinity, femininity and gender

This lesson explores gender roles in our society. Learners must focus on the fact that society has certain expectations how we should act, speak, dress and conduct ourselves based on our assigned sex, which is called stereotyping. This lesson also provides information about the impact of power in relationships. Learners must understand that when someone has power, it means that person can influence others more easily and can let the other person do what they want them to do. This can lead to manipulation and controlling behaviour which can be harmful to self-esteem.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the end of this lesson, learners must be able to:

• understand the impact of gender identity and gender roles • understand the impact of stereotyping gender roles • understand how gender inequality and the misuse of power in relationships can contribute to sexual abuse • define the concepts of power, power relations, masculinity, femininity and gender

DEFINITIONS

Culture: Culture is an umbrella term which encompasses the social behaviour and norms found in different societies, as well as the knowledge, beliefs, arts, laws, customs, capabilities and habits of the individuals in these groups. Femininity: A set of attributes, behaviours and roles associated with girls and women. Gaslighting: A tactic and form of abuse in which a person manipulates another person in the hope of acquiring power and control over them. The manipulation leads to the victim questioning their own reality and perceptions.