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The concept of gender equality under cultural differences

The impact of culture on beliefs in equality, cultural differences in perceptions of gender equality between European American women and Hong Kong Chinese women, and their impact on mental health and life satisfaction. The study found that gender inequality had a greater impact on the mental health of European American women and a smaller impact on the life satisfaction of Hong Kong Chinese women. This may have something to do with the different concerns about equality and roles in the two cultures. Although these studies provide important insights into the impact of gender equality beliefs across cultures, there are some limitations, such as insufficient samples to validate measurement invariance and the possibility of generalization to other cultural contexts. Future research could explore the impact of notions of gender equality in broader cultural contexts, as well as the different interpretations and mental processes of equality among members of privileged groups. These studies contribute to a deeper understanding of gender equality and cultural differences, and promote respect for and sensitivity to the concept of equality.

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Mapping Gender Inequality (Land and Asset Disparities)

Gender inequality is a serious global problem that affects all aspects of development and welfare. To fully understand its spatial distribution, the researchers created a high-resolution map of gender inequality, examining land and asset differences by analyzing more than 600,000 households in 47 countries. On average, male-headed households have 13% more asset wealth and 303% more agricultural land than female-headed households. The results show that there is significant spatial heterogeneity between regions with high inequality and regions with low inequality. Interestingly, regions with marked inequality in land ownership are different from those with unequal wealth. Indicators of gender inequality in land and wealth are less correlated with traditional poverty and development indicators, providing new insights into the dimensions of global poverty. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions and nuanced understanding to address the multidimensional challenges of gender inequality.

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Globalization and Gender Wage Inequality: Insights from the Chinese Labor Market

The impact of globalization on gender wage inequality in all sectors of the Labour market. Despite advances in women's education and participation in the workforce, the gender wage gap remains wide in many countries. This resource examines the different ways in which globalization affects this inequality. Companies engaged in export and foreign investment tend to employ more women workers than domestic non-export companies. The presence of exporters and foreign companies in a region and industry has a positive impact on women's employment, indicating that globalization has a positive impact on gender equality. Foreign and exporting firms show a larger gender wage gap than domestic non-exporting firms. However, this difference is attributable to gender productivity differences rather than direct discrimination. Gender wage discrimination mainly occurs in private non-export companies. Globalization can have a positive impact on gender equality by providing more job opportunities for women. Research also shows that promoting education and training for female workers in high-skilled jobs can further reduce gender wage inequality.

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Gender inequality in India

In this blog, the focus is on gender inequality in India, particularly in the context of the workplace. The various aspects, causes, manifestations and possible solutions to gender inequality are discussed in this resource. Gender inequality in India is attributed to the social construction of unequal power dynamics in relationships, which has led to male domination and female subordination. This is already deeply embedded in social norms, reinforced by the notion that men's contributions are valued more than women's. Patriarchal values and cultural influences also contribute to women's low status and limited opportunities. Despite India's economic progress, women's labor force participation is declining. Factors such as low levels of education and cultural norms contribute to low Labour force participation among women. Patriarchy defines the roles and responsibilities of women, further hindering their active participation in the economy. Gender inequality is reflected in all aspects of Indian society, including access to health care, education and employment. Discrimination against women and children, limited access to education, and unequal pay in the workforce are some of the pervasive problems. Among the challenges women face in the Indian workforce are minimal bargaining power, lack of control over work-life balance, limited family support, and unequal access to resources and facilities. Occupational segregation also exacerbates gender inequality, with women often confined to low-paying jobs. The Government of India and ngos have implemented various policies and programmes to address gender inequality. These include educational initiatives that increase women's literacy rates and create equal opportunities for training and skills development. Women's committees, mentoring programs, and anti-sexual harassment policies have also been introduced into organizations to promote gender equality. Finally, the important role that human resource development can play in addressing gender inequality was highlighted. Human resource development can lead efforts to promote gender equality within organizations through recruitment practices, training and development, mentoring programs, and evaluation systems. By actively engaging in these efforts, human resource development can contribute to reducing gender inequality in the Indian workplace.

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Reinventing the Modern Workplace: Parsing gender inequality and pathways to Change

This blog explores the role of the modern workplace in shaping gender inequality. This article reviews theories and research on gender inequality in the workplace. First, it summarizes the historical role of gender in the division of labor and presents data on different intersecting patterns of gender inequality and occupational gender segregation. Then, the popular theoretical explanations are discussed, gradually shifting from the individual level to the structural and organizational level. Then, it reviews the empirical research on gender inequality in the workplace, including the research on the relationship between culture and gender inequality, and the related research on the reproduction mechanism of gender inequality in organizations. The paper begins with a discussion of the mechanism of reducing inequality, and proposes ways to reduce gender inequality through institutional environment and actor actions. In addition, the role of women in driving change, especially in management, is highlighted, where they can drive the feminist agenda, advocate for diversity programs, and promote organizational cultural change. Ultimately, there is a call to expand the scope of research to focus on different intersections, especially the intersection of gender with ethnicity and race, as well as unequal systems in public and nonprofit organizations. At the same time, it is proposed to expand the theory and combine feminist research with organizational theory to explore the mechanisms and conditions of change to better understand and address gender inequality.

Source：

Kalev, A., & Deutsch, G. (2018). Gender inequality and workplace organizations: understanding reproduction and change. Handbook of the Sociology of Gender, 257-269.

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"Media's Impact on Female Athletes: Reinforcing Gender Norms and Inequalities in Sports Coverage"

From the resource study, it explores the representation of female athletes in the media, focusing on how gender values are generated through various forms of media. It highlights the role of the media in reinforcing gender differences and inequalities, particularly in sports. Despite progress in promoting gender equality, female athletes are still often objectified and sexualized, with their athletic skills often overshadowed by their appearance. Media coverage often focuses on physical characteristics, trivializes their achievements, and reinforces traditional gender norms. The problem is not limited to Western societies, but extends to Asia as well, where similar trends have been observed. The article concludes that social change, including increased representation of women in sports management and the media, is needed to challenge and change these stereotypes.

In terms of the importance of gender roles, men and women are socialized differently from an early age. Men are taught to play sports or watch sports through a variety of channels, including family, friends, and school, while women are primarily taught that sports are for men only. The study notes that these pathways emphasize that exercise is for men, thus making exercise and masculinity synonymous. The media further reinforced this masculinity by emphasizing the athlete's appearance and position, as well as the text accompanying the photos. Research shows that not only are female athletes undervalued, devalued, and sexualized in the media, but the media also plays a role in highlighting athletes' femininity.

The study also found that while female athletes have achieved success in non-sports fields, they are still discriminated against in sports. Media coverage varies not only in quantity, but also in quality. Major themes include undervaluing, devaluing, sexualizing, and sexualizing, which are constantly reinforced and replicated in sexist media coverage of sports. For example, media coverage of female athletes often ignores their athletic achievements and focuses more on their physical characteristics. In this case, the media highlights gender inequality and gender differences and conveys this view through words and images. It is also worth noting that media coverage of female athletes also suffers from the problem of heteronormization, that is, portraying female athletes as objects to satisfy the desires of the opposite sex.

Source：

Trolan, E. J. (2013). The impact of the media on gender inequality within sport. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 91, 215-227.

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https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSLXNwBHs/

A gender stereotype is a fixed, overgeneralized concept that is widely used in society to describe the characteristics of a certain gender in certain activities, roles, and behaviors. These stereotypes often inaccurately confine people to traditional gender roles, limiting individual freedom and choice. From this video we see gender stereotypes: women do the housework and take care of the family, people think that women are naturally suited to take on household roles such as cooking, cleaning and caring for children and the elderly in the family. However, this perception ignores the outstanding achievements and abilities of many women in the workplace and beyond. Men in technical and engineering fields: It is often assumed that men are better at science, technology, engineering and mathematics, ignoring the remarkable achievements of many women in these fields.

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Research on gender inequality in housework and child care

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4242525/

This article explores research on gender inequality in housework and child care, and points to reflections and future research directions in this area.

In terms of reflection, the article mentions the strengths and limitations of the National Survey of Families and Households (NSFH) used in the study of housework. Although housework research has made some progress, qualitative research based on small samples may limit the generality of the study. However, both the nationally representative data and the time diary data reached similar conclusions about the gender gap in domestic work, suggesting that gender inequality persists.

In the aspect of future research direction, this paper puts forward several important views. First, the study of domestic work and child care should take into account the distribution of time between men and women in other unpaid work at home and paid work in a comprehensive way to assess gender inequality. Second, attention needs to be paid to how contextual factors influence levels of housework and child care and gender differences. The political, economic and social history of the country has an impact on the division of housework and childcare and needs to be studied from a multi-layered perspective. Third, the assessment of gender inequality should not only focus on domestic work, but also include childcare, which may have an impact on women's market work and career development.

It also points to the possible impact of the current economic downturn on gender relations. Times of economic change tend to shake up the status quo in gender relations, so it may be instructive to examine the behaviors and attitudes of men and women during the current recession. As the economic situation changes, the division of housework and childcare may be affected and further research is needed.

Overall, in-depth research on gender inequality in housework and child care is important for understanding and promoting the development of gender equality. Future studies should take into account the effects of national factors, family factors, and economic and social changes to more fully assess and predict the future of the gender division of labor.

Reference：

Bianchi, S. M., Sayer, L. C., Milkie, M. A., & Robinson, J. P. (2012). Housework: Who Did, Does or Will Do It, and How Much Does It Matter? Social Forces, 91(1), 55–63. DOI: 10.1093/sf/sos086

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The Social Construction of Gender in the Workplace

In this blog post we will delve into the social construction of gender in the workplace and explore the impact of gender roles on career choices and advancement.

In Lorber's (1994) book Paradoxes of Gender, she delves into the process of constructing gender in society, with a particular focus on the social construction of gender in the workplace.Lorber argues that gender is a social construction, an identity that is created and reproduced in social practices and culture. In the workplace, the social construction of gender plays an important role. People define and identify the roles of men and women in the work environment based on social and cultural expectations and role stereotypes. These gender role expectations can lead to limitations on women's leadership in the workplace, as well as limitations on men's access to certain career fields. For example, some professions are generally recognised as 'male domains' and women may face gender discrimination and challenges in these fields.

Lorber emphasises that gendered social constructs are not fixed, but can be reconstructed and changed. Gender constructs in the workplace are constantly reproduced through people's behaviour, language and interactions in the work environment. Therefore, to promote gender equality and break down gender stereotypes, we need to focus on changes in organisational culture, gender equality policies and leadership development. The social construction of gender in the workplace also involves gender differences and pay inequality. Different expectations and evaluations of different genders at work have resulted in women being treated unfairly in terms of pay and career development. This makes the promotion of gender equality and gender diversity an important issue in the workplace.

By recognising and reflecting on the social construction of gender in the workplace, we can promote an inclusive and equitable workplace environment. This requires breaking down gender roles, promoting the concept of gender equality, and providing equal opportunities and resources for everyone, so that every employee can develop their full potential and abilities and contribute positively to the development of the organisation.

In searching for reliable sources on gender studies, I used keywords such as "gender studies", "gender roles", "transgender", and so on. I searched mainly in academic databases and authoritative journals and filtered out the most relevant studies. During my search, I found that there are more studies on the social identity of transgender people, while there are relatively few studies on the social construction of gender in the workplace. By digging deeper, I eventually found two valuable sources and wrote posts about them.

Sources:

Lorber, J. (1994). “Night to His Day”: The Social Construction of Gender. In Paradoxes of Gender (pp. 13–36). Yale University Press.

http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1bhkntg.5

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Gender Studies

Gender studies, as an interdisciplinary discipline, focuses on the role of gender in society. By delving into the construction, embodiment, and transmission of gender, gender studies helps us to understand how gender is socially and culturally shaped and has important implications for individuals and society. Gender studies explores topics such as gender equality, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, gender discrimination, etc., and provides valuable insights to promote gender equality and social change.

The second-wave feminist movement of the 20th century focused on gender. Over time, gender studies has gradually developed into an independent discipline covering a number of branches and fields, including women's studies, men's studies, transgender studies, feminist studies, and so on (Butler, 1990).

Gender studies is important because it helps us to recognise that gender is not just a biological trait, but a product of society and culture (Lorber, 1994). Through gender studies, we can learn how gender affects the roles and status of individuals in the family, workplace, politics and education. It reveals the existence of gender discrimination.

Sources:

Butler, J. (1990). Gender trouble: Feminism and the subversion of identity. Routledge

https://ebookcentral-proquest-com.ezproxy.waikato.ac.nz/lib/waikato/reader.action?docID=710077

Note: Gender Trouble provides an important theoretical foundation for gender studies and feminist theory. As a researcher, you can use Butler's theoretical framework to analyze the construction and impact of gender in society and explore the diversity and complexity of gender identity. This book can also help you understand the roots of gender inequality and gender bias, and how to drive gender equality and social change.

As a community participant, you can read Gender Trouble to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of gender identity and enhance your understanding and respect for different gender groups. You can apply Butler's theory of gender performance to reflect on societal stereotypes and biases about gender roles, and become actively involved in advocacy activities that advance gender equality and inclusion.

Gender Studies not only focuses on the biological differences between men and women, but more importantly explores how gender is constructed, embodied and transmitted in society and culture, and the impact of this construction on individuals and society.

Note: In this influential chapter of The Gender Paradox, Judith Lorber explores the social construction of gender and challenges the traditional binary view of gender as a fixed and natural category. She believes that gender is a product of social processes and cultural beliefs and is not biologically determined. This chapter critically examines the ways in which society constructs and enforces gender norms, roles and expectations, and influences individual behavior, identity, and experience.

Importance: This chapter is crucial in the field of gender studies because it provides a groundbreaking perspective on the concept of gender. Lorber's work highlights the arbitrariness of gender differences and exposes the ways in which gender inequality and gender-based discrimination have long persisted in society. By deconstructing the concept of binary gender, this chapter opens avenues for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of gender diversity and identity.

Potential Uses: Researchers and scholars interested in gender studies can use this chapter as a foundation for understanding the complex and dynamic nature of gender. It provides valuable insights into how gender is constructed in society and provides a theoretical framework for analysing gender roles and identities in different social contexts. Educators and activists can also use this work to foster conversations about gender diversity, debunk gender stereotypes, and promote gender equality and inclusion in all areas of life.

The second wave feminist movement. Over time, gender studies has evolved into an independent discipline that encompasses multiple branches and fields, such as women's Studies, men's Studies, transgender studies, feminist studies, and more