How do those coming from each of these perspectives problematize or explain the phenomenon you have chosen? How has society’s views related to the phenomenon changed over time?

The Social Construction of Gender Essay

1. Pick a topic related to the gendered nature of social life; for example, gendered bodies; gendered families; gender and work. Research the literature on this topic and decide on your particular focus; for example, the medicalization of menstruation; the division of labour, sexual harassment in the workplace.

2. From the research you have done, compare and contrast the findings related to your topic that take an essentialist perspective on gender with the findings that take a social constructionist perspective. How do those coming from each of these perspectives problematize or explain the phenomenon you have chosen? How has society’s views related to the phenomenon changed over time?