Damsels in distress : how the social representations of the female role are changing in the 21st century

Abstract

This study aims to define how gender roles are perceived in the 21st century and how they are perceived to have changed over the past 50 years. Data was collected by conducting three focus groups. A total of 23 participants from 2 different age groups (18-24 and 35-45) took part in this study. A review of previously published literature is featured, divide in two sections: Social Representations and Gender Role. The data gathered through the focus groups was then analysed using Attride-Stirling's (2001) model for thematic analyses, and presented in diagrams. Results were then compared to previously read literature. The findings of the study show that even though remarkable changes have taken place over the past 50 years, the traditional gender roles still hold to this day, and women are in fact still seen as the weaker gender, mainly due to their physical constraints which lead to other issues. Difficulties with changing gender role stereotypes are also discussed. This study can be useful in bringing more awareness about gender roles and how they affect one's life. This will hopefully enlighten more people to think critically and strive towards creating more balanced gender roles.