Final answer:
The roles of women and men in society are changing, with historical evidence showing efforts by women to maintain economic and social autonomy, often against traditional gender norms. Conflict Theory highlights the struggle between dominant and subordinate groups, illuminating gender dynamics in society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The roles of women and men in society have undergone significant changes over time, especially during periods of societal upheaval like World War II. Women assumed additional roles as breadwinners during the war, which altered family structures and social dynamics. After the war, there was a return to traditional gender roles, but many women resisted forfeiting their newfound economic roles. This has been framed by Conflict Theory, which suggests social problems arise when dominant groups (often men) oppress subordinate groups (often women), leading to a struggle for scarce resources such as jobs. Historically, gender roles have been influenced by economic status. Wealthy women had autonomy due to education and commercial opportunities, while poorer women faced challenges of being commodified. Despite individual achievements, women were often depicted based on gender stereotypes. These behaviors were a response to men attempting to control women, leading to practices that reinforced gender distinction and social expectations.
In contemporary society, the role of women in the workplace is evolving, with women entering professions traditionally dominated by men. The prevalence of men in fields like law enforcement and politics contrasts with the number of women in care-related sectors like healthcare and childcare. Occupational roles still largely align with traditional gender expectations, but these are slowly changing to reflect a more equal society where personal preference is of greater importance. Despite progress, the emphasis on women's roles as homemakers persists, and societal norms continue to exert pressure on individual choices. Nonetheless, the demographic changes caused by the war led to many women living independently, challenging social norms and pushing for broader acceptance of diverse roles.