Final answer:
Gender schema theory indicates that gender roles and behaviors are influenced by societal norms absorbed throughout childhood, supported by research from multiple disciplines. Studies by Mascia-Lees and Johnson Black, Rogers & Meltzoff, and Seem and Clark bolster the notion that gender roles have a complex basis formed through an interaction of biological and cultural elements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gender schema theory, an important concept in social psychology, suggests that individuals internalize societal norms and expectations regarding gender, which in turn shape behavior. This theory posits that children learn about gender roles and identities in their culture and this knowledge guides their behavior. It is supported by research from various fields, including anthropology, psychology, and sociology, which shows that gender roles are a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors.
References like Mascia-Lees and Johnson Black on gender in anthropology highlight that human expressions of gender and sexuality are both biologically flexible and culturally variable. The study by Rogers & Meltzoff delves into identity in children and juxtaposes gender with race, emphasizing the importance and impact of gender identity. In addition, Seem and Clark evaluate gender role stereotypes in a modern context, providing insights into contemporary views of gender roles. Moreover, research into the implications of stereotypes on hiring practices and political evaluations, such as those by González et al. and Conroy et al., demonstrate real-world consequences of prevailing gender schemas.