SOC 14 - Sociology of Gender

Transfer Status

CSU/UC

Unit(s)

3.00

• Lecture: 51.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)
• Total: 51.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: This course is a sociological analysis of the social construction of gender, masculinity, and femininity historically and cross-culturally. It examines the debates on sex and gender. It analyzes the impact of economic and political change on gender expectations and practices. It focuses on macro-analyses of how institutions and culture shape gender and micro-analyses of how individuals are socialized and how they "do" and practice gender. (C-ID SOCI 140).

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Compare and contrast sociological perspectives used to interpret gender relations.
2. Differentiate between the terms 'sex' and 'gender' and discuss their differences within the larger social context of gendered relations.
3. Identify the main agents of gender socialization and their impact on children's and adults' gender construction.
4. Describe gender ideology and practices in multiple social institutions and across cultures and societies.
5. Identify the interplay of race, ethnicity, class, age, and sexuality affecting gender relations.
6. Outline the process by which people negotiate power and gender boundaries through their relationships with others (including violent relationships).
7. Identify social, political, and cultural movements to change gender inequalities and gender practices.

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lecture

1. Discussion
2. Guest Speakers
3. Homework: Students are required to complete two hours of outside-of-class homework for each hour of lecture
4. Lecture
5. Multimedia Presentations
6. Reading Assignments

1. Quizzes
2. Research Projects
3. Homework
4. Class participation
5. Mid-term and final examinations
6. On written assignments, students will be required to produce a minimum of 1,500 words.

Reading Assignments

1. Read the chapter on Masculinity and Men's Norms and Values. Compare and contrast the various insecurities and vulnerabilities detailed in the chapter. Be prepared to discuss personal issues as they relate to either yourself or a family member.
2. Read the chapter detailing the social impact of class on race and ethnicity. Detail the differences between Latino, African American and White families and how we socialize our children into their gender roles. Be prepared to discuss these perspectives in detail in class.

Writing Assignments

1. In previous classes we have discussed how culture has influenced diversity and how women's contributions have become more inclusive. In a 2-3 page essay detail the various contributions made by men and women in our society. Detail how the various matrilineal and patrilineal cultural systems deal with male authority versus female power. Explain and give examples.
2. Write a 2-3 page essay detailing the construction of an ideal family form and marital relationship from a functional and conflict perspective. Include how marital success and happiness are determined in this idealized construction. Give examples of all perspectives.

Out-of-Class Assignments

1. A person’s mind matures through interaction with the environment. Watch the movie "Nell.” Write a paper detailing the social development of Nell. Pay particular attention to gender identity, cognitive development, issues of androgyny and symbolic interaction. Give examples from the movie.
2. Watch the provided videos on children at play. Prepare a paper discussing what they play with (toys), who they play with (same or opposite sex children), how they handle conflicts and gendered interactions with adults. Relate this to information from your text about gender socialization.

Durham, M. Gigi. (2009). The Lolita Effect. Abrams Press, 1st. 9781590200636.

Katz, Jackson. (2006). The Macho Paradox. Sourcebooks, n/a. 9781402204012.

Lindsey, Linda L. (2021). Gender: A Sociological Perspective. Routledge, 7th ed. 9781138103696.

DeFrancisco, Palczewski, McGeough. (2022). Gender in Communications. Sage, 4th. 9781071852927.

Sociology (Masters Required)

Women's Studies