Final answer:
The student's question requires a reflective analysis on the concept of gender roles, focusing on personal changes or consistencies in views. Concepts like essentialism, performative aspects of gender, and the sociocultural construction of masculinity are essential to the discussion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to the reflection on gender roles and how personal perceptions may have changed or stayed the same after class discussions. The student is also asked to defend their position and respond to peers. This involves critical thinking and self-awareness about how gender roles have been learned and performed, and how they influence various aspects of life, from family dynamics to societal structures. Mentioning specific concepts like essentialsim, performative aspects of gender, and the sociocultural construction of masculinity can help elaborate on the intricacies of gender roles.
Essentialism is a critical concept to address; it involves the idea that some traits are inherent in individuals by virtue of their gender and leads to circular thinking. Discussing the performative aspects of gender is important, as it relates to how individuals present their gender in social contexts, and the distinction between public and private social realms can establish the varying expectations placed on gender categories.
A discussion of how gender roles affected one's childhood, particularly through gendered toys and play, can offer insight into the pervasive nature of gender expectations. Finally, providing examples or discussing hypothetical scenarios such as a matriarchal society or addressing gender-based violence can serve as practical applications of these concepts in analyzing and challenging existing norms.