Final answer:
Children do acquire gender identities through socialization, receiving rewards for gender-appropriate behavior and sanctions for non-conformity, such as criticism or exclusion by peers. Socialization includes positive feedback from parents during play and societal norms that shape children's understanding of gender roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that children acquire their respective gender identities by being rewarded for gender-appropriate behavior and punished for gender-inappropriate behavior is generally considered true. Children learn gender roles through various forms of socialization, including play, where they receive positive reinforcement for engaging with toys and activities deemed suitable for their gender. For example, boys who play with trucks or engage in aggressive activities might receive praise, while a girl may be encouraged when she engages in nurturing play with dolls. At the same time, children may face negative sanctions such as criticism or marginalization from peers when they do not conform to expected gender roles, like a girl being labeled a 'tomboy' for choosing karate over dance, or boys facing ridicule for expressing interest in traditionally feminine activities.
Gender socialization is a complex process influenced by various societal factors, including parents, peers, media, and cultural beliefs. The research indicates that by age two or three, children are already aware of gender roles and by four or five, most are firmly entrenched in culturally appropriate gender roles. These roles are learned through the socialization process, which dictates societal values, beliefs, and attitudes, and can result in the reinforcement of gender stereotypes.