Final answer:
Differential socialization in childhood does explain sex segregation in adult employment because children are taught gender-specific roles and behaviors that influence their career choices. This contributes to the gendered division of labor seen in adult employment and aligns with the sociological theory of Functionalism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question you're asking relates to the concept of differential socialization and how it impacts gender roles and eventually leads to sex segregation in employment. Differential socialization starts in childhood when individuals are taught different behaviors, values, and roles based on their gender through various agents such as family, schools, peer groups, and media. This socialization process markedly influences career choices and contributes to the concentration of men and women in different occupations, which can be seen in the disparities in adult employment.
For example, children often receive toys and are encouraged to engage in activities that conform to gender norms, which has a long-term influence on their perceptions of suitable careers. This can lead to a gendered division of labor that is reflected in adult employment statistics. Moreover, this concept is consistent with the sociological theory of Functionalism, which posits that gender differentiation contributes to social stability by fulfilling necessary societal functions.
Therefore, to answer the student's question, it is true that differential socialization in childhood explains sex segregation in adult employment. Socialization practices ingrained from an early age play a significant role in guiding individuals towards certain professions deemed appropriate for their gender, thereby perpetuating the gender divide in the workforce.