Education and societal norms influence gender disparities in academic achievement from "summary" of The Psychology of Sex Differences by Eleanor E. Maccoby,Carol Nagy Jacklin
The disparities in academic achievement between genders are not solely a reflection of innate differences in ability, but are also shaped by the educational opportunities and societal norms that individuals are exposed to. Education plays a crucial role in perpetuating gender disparities, as schools and teachers may unknowingly reinforce stereotypes that limit the academic potential of girls. For example, girls may receive less attention in the classroom or be encouraged to pursue certain subjects based on traditional gender roles. Societal norms also play a significant role in shaping gender disparities in academic achievement. Cultural expectations about the roles and abilities of men and women can influence the way that individuals perceive themselves and their capabilities. For instance, boys may be socialized to be more assertive and competitive, traits that are often valued in academic settings. On the other hand, girls may be socialized to be more nurturing and cooperative, characteristics that may not be as highly rewarded in academic environments. These societal norms can have a lasting impact on individuals throughout their educational journey. For example, girls may be less likely to pursue advanced STEM courses due to societal beliefs about their lack of aptitude in these areas. Similarly, boys may be discouraged from pursuing interests in the arts or humanities because these fields are often associated with femininity. In order to address gender disparities in academic achievement, it is crucial to examine and challenge the ways in which education and societal norms shape individuals' opportunities and experiences. By creating more inclusive and equitable educational environments, we can help to mitigate the impact of these disparities and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to reach their full academic potential.
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