Correct Answer - Option 2 : Parents, family members and care givers
Early childhood:-
- 'Early childhood' lies between the age of '2 to 6 years.
- It is a very crucial period for the overall development of the child.
- It is also known as the toy age, pre-gang age, and exploratory age, etc.
Gender refers to the socially constructed differences between men and women. It refers to the masculine and feminine qualities, behaviour, roles, and responsibilities that society upholds. Gender can be changed / re-oriented.
Sense of Gender identity in Early Childhood:
- Gender role is a set of expectations that prescribes how females and males should think, act, and feel.
- Through rewards and punishments, they induce in children gender-appropriate and inappropriate behaviours.
- Preteens and teenagers continue to shape their gender identities through personal reflection and input from peers, family, and friends.
- Gender-based ideas, attitudes, and actions are influenced by a variety of contextual influences, including a child's family, teachers, peers, and the media. Toys that are "gender-appropriate" are often obtained from parents and family members. Pastel hues, princesses, teddy animals, dolls, and other items are presented to girls. Boys, on the other hand, are given vehicles, tractors, and other similar items.
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Caregivers, family members, and teachers all have a tendency to perpetuate gender stereotypical behaviours, whether intentionally or unconsciously. When a young boy plays with vehicles or trucks, or "roughhouses" with other children, a caregiver may react more positively. Caregivers are also more likely to communicate to young girls about their feelings and offer them assistance or advice in daily chores.
Thus from the above-mentioned points, it is clear that parents, family members and caregivers are the most influential factor with regard to gender identity in early childhood.
