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following conventional gender standards can in fact, provide some people a feeling of identity and connection. these standards can provide a foundation for self-understanding and interpersonal relationships, fostering a sense of security and acceptance. but it is important to understand that gender standards may also be oppressive and a factor in inequality. they frequently support inflexible expectations and preconceived notions, which may restrict peoples ability to express themselves freely and go for chances outside of roles that are assigned to them. this may result in unfair access to opportunities and recourses based on gender and systemic discrimination.

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Gender norms are there because nature divides both genders and whilst being divided,is portray men as people who are supposed to look after the family and protect the family and also do hard labour as a result of physique in their body construction. Whereas women are are portrayed as beings that will undertake those soft work because they seem too fragile and incompetence to do hard labour

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Gender norms have long been ingrained in societies, dictating the behaviors, roles, and identities expected from individuals based on their perceived gender. While some find solace and community within these norms, they often serve as oppressive tools, perpetuating inequality and stifling individual expression. This house will delve into the negative implications and arguments of gender norms, focusing on their role in limiting agency, autonomy, and hindering social change.

Oppressive Nature of Gender Norms: Gender norms, rooted in patriarchal ideologies, assign specific roles and behaviors to individuals based on their perceived gender. This enforcement of binary roles often leads to the marginalization and oppression of those who do not conform. Women, for instance, are expected to adhere to submissive and nurturing roles, while men are pressured to embody traits of dominance and stoicism. These rigid expectations restrict the full expression of one's identity and perpetuate power imbalances within society.

Restriction of Individual Expression: Gender norms impose strict boundaries on how individuals should express themselves, leading to the suppression of authenticity and diversity. Those who deviate from these norms often face ridicule, discrimination, or even violence. Non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals, for example, are frequently marginalized and invalidated for challenging traditional gender roles. This stifling of individual expression not only hinders personal growth but also impedes societal progress towards greater acceptance and inclusivity.

Impact on Agency and Autonomy: Gender norms exert control over individuals' agency and autonomy, limiting their ability to make choices free from societal expectations. Women, in particular, face barriers to achieving autonomy over their bodies, careers, and relationships due to pervasive gender stereotypes. These constraints perpetuate cycles of dependency and subjugation, hindering women's empowerment and perpetuating systemic inequalities. Similarly, men who do not conform to traditional masculine norms may face social ostracization and feelings of inadequacy, further eroding their sense of agency.

Hindrance to Social Change: Gender norms serve as barriers to social progress by reinforcing outdated power structures and norms. The perpetuation of traditional gender roles inhibits efforts towards gender equality and diversity inclusion. Moreover, the normalization of these norms within institutions and cultural practices reinforces their pervasive influence, making it challenging to enact meaningful change. Without dismantling these oppressive structures, efforts towards achieving a more equitable society will remain futile.

Conclusion: In conclusion, gender norms perpetuate oppression, inequality, and restriction of individual expression within society. By imposing rigid expectations based on binary conceptions of gender, these norms undermine agency, autonomy, and hinder social change. It is imperative to challenge and dismantle these oppressive structures to create a more inclusive and equitable society where individuals are free to express themselves authentically, irrespective of gender. Only then can we truly realise the full potential of human diversity and achieve meaningful progress towards gender equality.

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in order to argue in the affirmative i will be taking a look at african spirituality ,whenever one is initiated into the guild of sangomas they are usually calld gogo and they assume this name even if its the name of a woman ,others even go as far as assuming feminine roles within th community,his to me proves that gender in africa can be a neutral thing ,as much as africa is seen as as super patriarchal and that gender roles are very strict this shows me that this is a false narrative as these sangomas who hav assumed femininity aftr being initiated are often held in high regards in the community ,even in europe in ancient greek times sexuality was a very fluid thing with emperors like alexander the great and julius ceaser were gender fluid but since them being gender fluid didnt fit with the idea of the hyper masculine conqueror this was erased from history

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i believe that gender as a concept is a construct created to reinforce power dynamics amongst people, e.g. the more you conform the more acceptance we receive.as individuals no one is purely feminine nor masculine, and by nature and nurture we develope specific charscteristics.

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Gender norms regarding femininity and masculinity are oppressive and upload inequality because they restrict individual expression and limit their ability to break free from societal expectations.

These norms dictate how individuals must act, wear and what activities they should participate in. This creates a restrictive and binary understanding of gender that prevents individuals from expressing themselves authentically and perpetuates systematic inequality.

First and foremost gender norms create this idea that certain traits and behaviors are inherently masculine or feminine. For example femininity is often associated with traits like naturing and emotional sensitivity while masculinity is associated with traits like aggressiveness and independence. These stereotypes create a narrow definition of gender that excludes many people who may not fit neatly into these boxes that is created for them.

Furthermore these norms perpetuate inequality by reinforcing the idea this certain activities and pursuits are off limits based on gender. For example boys can't be interested in fashion while girls can't enter field that is deemed as a male field like engineering. This not only limits individuals ability to explore their interest but also creates this idea that certain activities are for a certain gender in it promotes inequality in various fields.

These gender norms also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and expectations that can lead to discrimination and violence against those who do not conform. For example boys who do not adhere to traditionally masculine norms may be bullied and harassed, while girls who do not adhere to traditionally femininity may face discrimination and objectification. This creates a fear to fully be yourself

In conclusion gender norms about femininity and masculinity are inherently oppressive and uphold inequality by restricting individuals expression and perpetuating harmful stereotypes and expectations. Its is essential to challenge these norms to create a more inclusive and a society where people can authentically be themselves without fear of judgement or discrimination.

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Gender norms are values set to separate genders into what society thinks is best for them. Gender norms occur because there is diversity in cultural norms therefore they are initially established with an aim of prevailing roles for men and women.

We think it is oppressive and restrictive because it is believed that only certain jobs (culturally even in the society) can only be done by either males or females. lets say maybe mining or hard labor is believed to only be done by males. this restricts females who have the capabilities and even better skills than "males" to get the job done. In example, women only have fewer seats in leadership positions even in politics.

With regards to males, gender norms are also oppressive and restrictive because they cannot be emotionally present and show nurture as they are subjected to "hard labor". When men do feminine jobs they are oppressed and even called names and gays.

Therefore it is concluded that gender norms are oppressive and restrictive because people do not have enough knowledge about the changes in gender roles.