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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. (4 × 1) = 4
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In this lesson we will explore gender roles in our society. Society has certain expectations how we should act, speak, dress and conduct ourselves based on our assigned sex. We call it stereotyping. We will also look at the impact of power in relationships. When you have power, it means that you can influence others more easily and can let the other person do what you 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, you 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. Gender: The range of characteristics pertaining to and differentiating between masculinity and femininity. Gender norms: Standards and expectations to which women and men generally conform within a particular society, culture or community. Masculinity: A set of attributes, behaviours and roles associated with boys and men. Power: In social sciences and politics, power is the capacity of an individual to influence the actions, beliefs and/or conduct of others. Relationship power: Power in relationships is the respective abilities of each individual in that relationship to influence each other and direct the relationship. Sexual abuse: Unwanted sexual activity with perpetrators using force, making threats or taking advantage of victims not able to give consent.
