Men and women have been defined as being different for centuries. The definition of what it means to be a man or woman has changed over time, but much of society still believes in traditional gender roles.
In some countries, for example, it is typical for men to stay home to care for children while their wives work outside the home. In other countries, it is more common for both parents to work outside the home while their children go to daycare or school during the day. Some people believe that these traditional gender roles can limit people’s opportunities in life because they do not allow everyone to pursue their own interests or dreams.
The traditional model of masculinity places great importance on strength, independence, aggression, assertiveness, achievement, and self-reliance. It is assumed that men will be in charge of their families and make all important decisions, even if they do not have all the facts or knowledge needed to make those decisions. Men are expected to be tough, competitive, and aggressive with other men but sensitive, nurturing, and gentle with women. They need to be strong leaders who provide for their families financially and protect them physically from danger or harm.
The traditional model of femininity places great importance on being attractive, submissive, passive, and dependent upon men for emotional support. Women are expected to be weak physically compared to men (because they give birth), emotional (because they supposedly cry a lot), nurturing (because they raise children), and domestic (working inside the home).
