Social Role Theory in AP Psychology

Definition

Social role theory is a psychological perspective that suggests gender-based attitudes and behaviors are influenced by the social roles individuals occupy in society. It posits that societal expectations for gender roles shape our beliefs, values, and behaviors related to masculinity and femininity.

Related terms

Gender Roles:

Society's expectations about how men and women should think, feel, and act.

Gender Identity:

An individual's deeply felt sense of being male or female or something else, which may not align with their biological sex.

Stereotypes:

Widely held beliefs or generalizations about a particular group of people based on characteristics such as gender, race, or age.