Social class significantly influences how gender is perceived, expressed, and experienced by shaping expectations, behaviors, and opportunities. Low-power associated with both gender and lower social class often increases other-oriented behavior, while upper-class settings can reinforce traditional, other-oriented gender roles for women. Conversely, the constraints faced by lower-class women may necessitate more self-oriented behavior.
The Intersection of Class and Gender
Gender and social class are intersecting social constructs that create unique experiences for individuals. The ways in which these two categories interact can impact everything from access to resources and opportunities to societal expectations and personal identity.
Lower Social Class and Gender
- Increased Other-Oriented Behavior Due to Low Power: Individuals in lower social classes, regardless of gender, often experience a lack of power and resources. This lack of power can lead to increased other-oriented behavior, as they may be more reliant on others for support and survival.
- Constraints Requiring Self-Oriented Behavior: Lower-class women may face financial hardship and limited resources, requiring them to be more self-reliant and assertive in navigating their lives. This can challenge traditional gender roles that emphasize passivity and dependence.
Upper Social Class and Gender
- Reinforcement of Traditional Gender Roles: In upper-class settings, traditional gender roles are often reinforced, especially for women. They may be expected to prioritize family, social engagements, and philanthropic activities, which can limit their professional opportunities and reinforce the idea that women are primarily other-oriented.
- Privilege and Power Dynamics: While upper-class women benefit from privilege, gendered power dynamics can still exist. Their access to resources doesn't necessarily translate into equal power within their relationships or society as a whole.
Examples of Class Affecting Gender
- Education: Social class impacts access to quality education, which subsequently affects career opportunities. Women from lower social classes may face barriers to higher education, limiting their economic mobility and reinforcing gender inequality.
- Healthcare: Social class affects access to healthcare, including reproductive healthcare. Lower-class women may have limited access to prenatal care, contraception, and other essential services, impacting their health and well-being.
- Employment: Social class shapes employment opportunities and career advancement. Women from lower social classes may be concentrated in low-paying, unstable jobs, while upper-class women may have access to more prestigious and high-paying positions.
- Family Roles: Social class influences family roles and expectations. Lower-class women may be expected to work outside the home while also managing household responsibilities, leading to increased stress and burden. Upper-class women may be more likely to stay at home or engage in part-time work, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
Conclusion
In summary, social class significantly affects gender by influencing societal expectations, access to resources, and opportunities, thereby shaping individual behavior and reinforcing or challenging gender norms. The experience of gender is inextricably linked to one's social class, creating diverse and complex realities for individuals across the socioeconomic spectrum.
