Is it a stereotype that girls are not good at science When discussing gender differences between men and women, have you been distracted by some stereotypes in society?
These stereotypes often mislead our true understanding of gender differences. It was not until the 20s of the last century that the existence of the human sex chromosome, the 23rd pair of chromosomes, was confirmed, in which the two X chromosomes were made up of females and the ones made of one X and one Y were males.
While scientific research has been conducted in recent decades on gender differences from multiple perspectives, including hormones, evolutionary psychology, social factors, and human cognitive development, the global perception of stereotypical gender roles for men and women is deeply rooted. Let's examine some common gender stereotypes.
When it comes to learning, it is generally agreed that boys are better at math and geometry, while girls are better at reading. However, recent studies have shown that the cognitive differences between men and women are exaggerated. Although early researchers believed that men were superior in math and visuospatial skills, 21st-century studies have found that this difference is overstated. Math test studies in the United States show that boys are slightly better at math, while girls are better at reading. However, this may also reflect the influence of stereotyped gender roles on subject choices, such as boys may be reluctant to make an effort in reading, while girls are intimidated by math.
When it comes to emotions, it is generally accepted that men are better at regulating their emotions. However, studies have found that men are generally worse at regulating emotions than women. From an early age, boys learn to hide negative emotions in their hearts, which is closely related to the cultural expectation of men to express their emotions. This intrinsic emotional repression can lead to higher levels of stress hormones in men, increasing the risk of blood clots and elevated blood pressure.
When it comes to aggression, it is generally accepted that men are more likely to resort to physical aggression. However, when it comes to verbal aggression, the gender difference is less pronounced, and girls may be stronger at verbal aggression. Some scholars believe that girls are better at relational aggression, such as rumor-mongering and deliberate ignorance, but research in this area is still controversial.
These pervasive stereotypes affect our understanding and judgment of ourselves and the outside world, and make it more difficult for us to understand each other. There is a general consensus in academia that even if there are gender differences, we should see that there is much in common between men and women. Understanding the root causes of these differences is essential for a more comprehensive understanding of gender roles, as these differences are often the result of a combination of biological, socio-cultural and adaptive factors.