Question

Gender construction starts with a sex category which becomes a gender status through the use of gender markers. Gender markers are so prevalent that we often fail to notice them, unless they are missing. What are gender markers? How do we react when there are no markers/signs?

Once a child's gender is evident, treatment is gender specific, and children begin to respond in learned ways. How is treatment gender specific? Give specific examples.

Answer 1

“Gender markers” are the categories/ options available on different forms or surveys such as, driving license, birth certificate, job applications,etc. These options typically include Male (M), Female (F) and Transgender (T). These markers have been introduced so as to categorise and identify the gender that an individual is or identifies with.While some individuals may have no specific issues in mentioning their gender, there might be certain individuals who refrain from identifying or conforming to one particular gender.This concept of refraining oneself from confining to one particular gender is known as “gender fluidity”.Gender fluid individuals may potray traits of masculinity, femininity, both or neither.These individuals consider themselves as “non-binary”.When dealing with such individuals, it is essential to use the right pronouns to avoid coming across as disrespectful or judgemental.

Right from an early age, the gender and traits expected to be potrayed by the same are forced down upon a child. This phenomenon is called a Gender specific treatment, wherein certain characteristics and traits are expected or presumed by society, by an individual depending on their gender.Eg: A young boy is always asked to “man up” or “be tough” and not show emotions because the child is a “boy”. Retrospectively, a young girl is asked to more “ladylike” and dress “appropriately” because the child is a “girl”.This imprints an urge or need to serve an expectation in a child’s mind,so as to prove their gender.