Answer:

Introduction

Gender role attitudes are formed through various socialization agents such as family, peer groups, media, and education. These attitudes shape individuals’ understanding of gender and influence their behavior in society.

Body

Socio-cultural, economic, and educational factors influencing the formation of gender role attitudes:

• Socio-cultural norms: Traditional gender norms and cultural expectations shape attitudes towards gender roles. For example, the belief that women should primarily focus on household chores and caregiving, while men should be breadwinners.
• Patriarchal structure: It reinforces the dominance of men and the subordination of women. This can be seen in the preference for male children and limited opportunities for women in leadership positions.
• Economic factors: Gender-based occupational segregation influences gender role attitudes. For instance, the perception that certain professions, such as engineering or finance, are more suitable for men, while caregiving roles are seen as more suitable for women.
• Education: Gender biases can be reinforced by educational curricula such as women shown as housewives in NCERT books, teaching practices, and class environment in schools.
• Media and popular culture: Media representations and portrayals of women as submissive or objectified and men as dominant and aggressive
• Religion and traditional beliefs: They can reinforce gender role attitudes. For example, some religious customs may restrict women’s autonomy or reinforce notions of female modesty and domesticity.
• Urban-rural divide: Rural areas tend to be more conservative and adhere strongly to traditional gender norms compared to urban areas where exposure to diverse perspectives may challenge these norms.
• Generational influences: Younger generations may have more progressive views due to increased exposure to gender equality movements and evolving societal norms.

Measures for promoting gender equality

• Legal framework: Legislation related to women’s rights and gender equality, can influence attitudes towards gender roles by promoting equal opportunities and protection against discrimination.
• Engaging Men as Allies: Encourage men to actively participate in promoting gender equality by challenging patriarchal norms and behaviors. The “HeForShe” campaign engages men as advocates for women’s rights.
• Media Representation: Encourage ethical and balanced media representation that challenges gender stereotypes and promotes positive role models. As done in the “Pad Man” movie which highlighted menstrual hygiene and challenged social taboos.
• Access to Justice: Improve access to justice for women by establishing fast-track courts, providing legal aid, and sensitizing law enforcement agencies. One such example is the Nirbhaya Fund set up to support initiatives addressing violence against women.
• Gender-Responsive Policies: Develop policies that consider the unique needs and challenges faced by women learning from schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana provides financial assistance to pregnant women for better nutrition and health services.
• Economic Empowerment: Ensure equal access to economic opportunities, including job opportunities and entrepreneurship, by providing skill development programs and financial support as seen in the MUDRA Yojana and Stand Up India scheme.
• Political Representation: Encourage and support women’s participation in politics and decision- making bodies through reservation quotas. For example, passing the long pending women’s reservation bill by Parliament.
  

Conclusion:

Implementing these measures will contribute to creating a more equitable and inclusive society where gender equality is valued and upheld by challenging stereotypes, and ensuring equal opportunities for all genders in the Azaadi ka Amrit Kaal.

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