Gender construction

Preparation work for live session

We've looked this week at how innate characteristics can differ between genders: attitudes to risk taking, levels of empathy and preferences for group activities vary between genders from a very young age. However, our culture and environment can also have a significant impact on 'gender norms' and expected behaviour. In today's session we're going to discuss how gender can be socially constructed, and ask whether and how much this has an effect on future career paths.

Choose one of the three pages in the preparation materials to focus on:

• The gender equality paradox

• Gender stereotypes

• Traditional roles

Make notes on the guiding questions (plus any other points you find interesting) and come to the live session prepared to explain the text you've read/listened to to the group and to give your opinion on the questions raised.