Human Growth and Development CLEP Prep Practice Exam

How does gender schema theory explain gender roles in society?

1. It posits that individuals are born with an internal masculine or feminine identity

2. It suggests that gender roles are learned from the environment

3. It proposes that gender identity is determined by genetics

4. It proposes that individuals learn through a process of imitation

The correct answer is: It suggests that gender roles are learned from the environment

Gender schema theory explains gender roles in society by suggesting that they are learned from the environment. This theory proposes that individuals acquire their understanding of what it means to be male or female through socialization and observation of others. This dismisses the notion of inherent gender identities or genetic determinants. Additionally, it emphasizes the way cultural norms and expectations impact the development of gender roles, rather than just individual traits or actions. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not take into account the societal influence on gender roles.