Sandra Bem

Definition

Sandra Bem was a psychologist known for her work in gender studies. She developed the Gender Schema Theory, which suggests that individuals develop mental frameworks or schemas about what it means to be male or female based on societal and cultural influences.

Related terms

Gender Schema Theory:

This theory proposes that individuals internalize societal expectations and beliefs about gender, which then influence their thoughts, behaviors, and self-perceptions.

Gender Identity:

Refers to an individual's deeply-held sense of being male, female, or another gender.

Socialization: The process by which individuals learn the norms, values, and behaviors associated with their culture or society.