Adolescents and Gender Roles: The Influence of Family Environment and Peer Dynamics

Description

Page: 627-629

Mehakdeep Kaur¹ and Deepika Vig² (Department of Human Development and Family Studies, College of Community Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab¹ and Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab²)

This review paper explores the interplay of family environment and peer dynamics in shaping gender role attitudes among adolescents, a critical period for identity formation. Gender role attitudes, encompassing traditional and egalitarian views, are significantly influenced by the family structure, parental education, and peer interactions. The findings highlight that progressive parenting, egalitarian household practices, and urban living foster equitable perspectives on gender roles. Conversely, traditional norms, often reinforced in single-parent or patriarchal setups, perpetuate stereotypes. Peer influence emerges as a vital factor with adolescents often aligning their attitudes with group norms to solidify their social identities. This review underscores the combined impact of familial and social contexts in shaping adolescents’ beliefs, emphasizing the need for inclusive and supportive environments to promote gender equity.