Introduction
It is rather interesting to note that society today has such a well-established preconception regarding genders (i.e. men being superior to women etc.) that when presented with alternatives to such established norms the result has been subject to confusion, disdain, at times even violence as seen in the case of the LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bi-sexual Transsexual) community.
Society and Gender Classification
What must be understood is that society has gotten so used to its defined means of classification that it is, at times, unable to neither change nor tell the distinction between new forms of gender and merely masculine/effeminate behavior. Take for example the case of lesbians, gays, and classifications regarding cross-gendered behavior; at times men showing distinctly feminine attributes or women having distinctly masculine characteristics are often attributed as being homosexual or bisexual even though they never really showed any interest in the same sex (Devor, 527-534).
One example of this in particular can be seen in the case of female bodybuilders who often look more masculine than some men (a feat that is aesthetically displeasing) and, at times, automatically classified as being lesbians despite the fact they are straight. In the same regard, homosexuality and bisexuality are often thought of by various parts of society as being nothing more than a form of cross-gendered behavior and not classified as their type of gender, which the LGBT community is endeavoring to dispel (Devor, 527 – 534).
Women and Socially Constructed Notions of Gender
When examining such a disposition towards classification it can be seen that people have become so used to the characteristics that define a particular gender or stereotype preconception that despite the latter proving otherwise the same “standard” continues to stick (Wilchins 187-191). For example, despite women showing that they are just as capable as men within the corporate world the same gender stereotype preconception continues to exist (which classifies women as being the weaker sex) which results in greater rights, privileges, and distinction being given to their less than capable male counterparts.
Taking such a concept to its zenith are instances where women are mentally and physically abused by their spouses through what is known as domestic violence (Crenshaw, 431 – 37). When examining this particular concept what must be understood is that it is the endemic social concept of male superiority that is behind this situation wherein if such a concept did not exist it domestic violence wouldn’t occur in the first place.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be seen that there is much that needs to be changed regarding social distinctions for gender and the necessity of implementing some means of ensuring equal gender rights and roles for all.
Works Cited
Crenshaw, Kimberle. “Mapping the Margins: Intersectionality, Identity Politics, hut out of ~ that they and Violence against Women of Color.” Feminist Frontiers. 7. (2007): 431-437. Print.
Devor, Aaron. “Who are We?.” Sex, Gender and Sexuality. 6.2 (2009): 527-534. Print.
Wilchins, Riki. “Gender rights are human rights.” Gender Queer. (2002): 187-191. Print.