Social Role Theory:

Social Role Theory is a psychological and sociological theory that explains how gender differences in behavior, personality, and social roles arise from the societal expectations and division of labor between men and women.

Key Points:

Developed by Alice Eagly:

• Social Role Theory was primarily developed by social psychologist Alice Eagly.
• It seeks to explain gender roles and how they shape behavior and perceptions.

Division of Labor:

• Historically, societies have divided labor based on gender (e.g., men as hunters/workers, women as caregivers).
• These roles lead to different skills, behaviors, and social expectations over time.

Socialization Process:

• From a young age, individuals are taught to adopt behaviors that match their expected social roles (e.g., boys are taught to be assertive, girls to be nurturing).

Behavioral Expectations:

• Men and women are expected to behave according to their assigned roles.
• These expectations reinforce stereotypes, even when individuals have the capability to act differently.

Gender Stereotypes:

• The theory helps explain the persistence of gender stereotypes (e.g., women are emotional, men are rational).
• It also shows how these stereotypes can limit opportunities and shape individual identities.

Modern Implications:

• As gender roles shift (e.g., more women in leadership), behavior and expectations are also evolving.
• Social Role Theory is often used to understand and critique inequality and promote gender equity.

Example:

• A woman in a leadership role may be perceived negatively if she acts assertively, because this defies the traditional “nurturing” female role. Social Role Theory explains this as a clash between expected gender roles and actual behavior.

Shervan K Shahhian