Differences from a biological perspective show that men are physically stronger and more aggressive than women. Therefore, it often comes naturally to a strong man with long arms to carry the heaviest boxes, rather than his wife who is fifteen centimeters shorter. When it comes to choosing a partner, studies show that older men prefer younger women. The explanation here relies on evolutionary theory: how to pass the genes on and survive.

From a socio-cultural perspective, some studies show that there is an expected behavior in boys and girls when it comes to interests, colors, professions and manners. These claims are often based on studies of how children are socialized.

Another observation from the study also pointed out what kind of toys, clothes or books the children received from the nursery staff, and what the staff interpreted as “boys’ and girls’ toys”.

“One example of this was when a girl in kindergarten who usually wore typical “boys’ clothes”, suddenly came in a pink dress. Then she got comments from the staff about how cute and pretty she looked in the dress.” (Stand, 2017)

It is this form of expectations for  children that helps to shape their identity.

Gender roles and gender differences in society can have many explanations, but there is still discussion about whether the reason for the roles is biological or social. 

What do you think?