Final answer:
The gender stratification hypothesis attributes cultural variations in opportunity structures as the primary factor influencing gender differences, focusing on societal norms and institutional practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gender stratification hypothesis suggests that cultural variations in opportunity structures for girls and women are the primary factor influencing gender differences. This hypothesis focuses on how societal norms and institutional practices create different opportunities and barriers based on gender, which in turn affect the roles, behaviors, and status of individuals within a culture. For instance, educational institutions that encourage gender segregation or favoritism towards one gender in certain subjects perpetuate disparities in knowledge and skills acquisition, which can impact future economic opportunities. Furthermore, social constructs, such as the expectation for women to prioritize domestic responsibilities over professional pursuits, can limit their access to various educational and occupational avenues.