Unit I: Understanding Gender
Short Questions
1. Define gender. How is it different from sex?
= Gender refers to the roles, behaviors, and expectations that society teaches people based on
whether they are male or female. it is something we learn from our family, culture, school,
media, and religion. For example, boys are often expected to be strong
Sex means the biological difference between males and females. It includes things like body
parts, hormones, and chromosomes. For example, boys and girls are born with different
reproductive organs, and they also have different levels of hormones. These differences help in
identifying whether a person is male or female at birth. In short Sex is Biological and Gender is
Social & Cultural.
2. What do you understand by masculinity and femininity?
= What do you understand by masculinity and femininity?**
**Masculinity** means the qualities or behaviors that society thinks are suitable for boys or men,
like being strong, brave, or tough.
**Femininity** means the qualities or behaviors that society expects from girls or women, like
being caring, gentle, or emotional.
3. Mention any two biological and two cultural determinants of being male and female.
= Biological Determinants:**
1. **Chromosomes** – Males have XY, females have XX.
2. **Hormones** – Like testosterone in males and estrogen in females.
Cultural Determinants:**
1. **Dress and clothing** – Society may expect girls to wear dresses and boys to wear pants.
2. **Roles in family** – In some cultures, women are expected to cook and take care of the
home, while men are expected to earn money.
4. Write short notes on:
- Gender identity
Gender identity means how a person feels about their own gender. It is a person’s inner sense
of being male, female, both, neither, or something else. This identity may match the sex they
were assigned at birth, or it may be different. For example, someone born as a boy may feel like
a girl inside, or they may not feel like either a boy or a girl. Gender identity is personal and can
be different from what society expects. It is not based on appearance or behavior, but on how
someone truly sees themselves. It is important to respect each person’s gender identity
because it is a big part of who they are.
- Feminist theory of gender
The feminist theory of gender says that gender roles are not natural, but they are created by
society to keep men in power and women in lower positions. According to this theory, women
have been treated unequally in areas like education, jobs, family, and politics. Feminists believe
that these differences are not because of biology but because of patriarchy—a system where
men hold most of the power. The feminist theory fights for equality between men and women,
and it encourages breaking harmful gender roles and stereotypes. It also supports the idea that
everyone, no matter their gender, should have equal rights and opportunities.
Long Question-answers
1. Explain the concept of gender and its complexities with examples.
Gender roles are shaped by both **biological** and **cultural factors**. **Biological factors**
include things like chromosomes, hormones, and physical features. For example, people born
with male (XY) chromosomes usually have higher levels of testosterone, which affects body
strength and physical appearance. Those born with female (XX) chromosomes have more
estrogen, which influences body changes like menstruation and pregnancy. These biological
differences can influence some physical abilities or roles, especially in early human societies
where physical strength mattered more.
However, **cultural factors** have a much bigger role in shaping gender roles today. Culture
refers to the beliefs, traditions, and practices that are passed down in a society. From a young
age, boys and girls are taught to behave in certain ways. For example, boys may be
encouraged to be brave and strong, while girls may be taught to be caring and polite. The kind
of clothes they wear, toys they play with, and even the careers they are guided toward can be
influenced by culture. Media, religion, family, education, and peer groups also play a big part in
teaching what is “normal” for men and women.
In short, while biology gives some basic differences, it is culture that shapes how men and
women are expected to behave in society. These gender roles are not fixed — they can change
over time and differ from one society to another.
2. Elaborate on the biological and cultural factors that shape gender roles in society.
Gender roles are shaped by both **biological** and **cultural** factors. Biological factors are
related to the body and nature. For example, males and females have different
**chromosomes**, **hormones**, and **reproductive organs**. Males usually have more
testosterone, which leads to physical strength and body changes, while females have more
estrogen, which supports childbearing and other functions. These biological differences may
affect some roles, like pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, **cultural factors** have a much
bigger role in shaping gender roles. Culture includes traditions, beliefs, religion, media, and
education. From childhood, boys and girls are taught to behave in certain ways. For example,
boys may be told to be brave and not cry, while girls are told to be gentle and quiet. In many
societies, men are expected to earn money, and women are expected to take care of the home.
These ideas are passed through family, school, religion, movies, and advertisements. Over
time, people believe these roles are natural, even though they are created by society. So, while
biology gives some differences, it is mostly culture that decides what roles men and women
should play. These roles can change if society changes its mindset and supports **gender
equality**.
3.Discuss the differences between sex and gender.
Sex and gender are two different things, though people often confuse them. **Sex** is the
**biological difference** between males and females. It is based on things like **body parts**,
**hormones**, and **chromosomes**. For example, males usually have XY chromosomes and
females have XX chromosomes. These differences are natural and are present from birth. On
the other hand, **gender** is about the **roles, behaviors, and expectations** that society
attaches to being male or female. For example, society may expect men to be strong and
women to be caring. These gender roles are **learned** from family, school, media, and culture.
Gender is not fixed—it can change over time and be different in different cultures. A person may
be born male but feel like a female inside, and that is related to their **gender identity**, not
their sex. In short, **sex is biological**, and **gender is social**. Understanding this difference is
important so that we do not judge people based on fixed ideas and can support equality and
self-expression.
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Unit II: Social Construction of Gender
Short Questions
1. What is gender socialization? Explain with examples.
2. Write a note on gender roles and stereotypes.
3. How does popular culture influence gender identity?
Popular culture includes movies, TV shows, music, advertisements, social media, fashion, and
celebrities. These things are all around us and have a big influence on how we see ourselves
and others. From a young age, we see men and women shown in certain ways—like strong,
powerful heroes are usually men, and beautiful, emotional characters are often women. These
repeated images and messages tell us what is "normal" for boys and girls. For example, boys
may feel they must be tough and avoid crying, while girls may feel they should look pretty and
be polite. Social media adds even more pressure, as people try to follow trends, copy
celebrities, and fit into what is shown as "ideal." This can make people feel bad if they don’t
match those images. Popular culture can create **gender stereotypes**, but it can also help
break them. When we see women as leaders or men expressing emotions in films or media, it
sends a positive message. So, popular culture has the power to both **limit and support gender
identity**. It is important to be aware of its influence and promote content that allows people to
express their gender freely and equally.
4. Name any three myths/literary forms that reinforce gender norms.
Many myths and stories from the past show men and women in fixed roles, which support
gender norms. Below are some examples of myths that reinforce gender norms:
Ramayana: where Sita is shown as the ideal wife—silent, obedient, and always sacrificing for
her husband. This teaches people that women should always adjust and follow their husbands.
fairy tales: like *Snow White* or *Cinderella*. In these stories, the girl is always shown as weak,
kind, and waiting for a man to save her. This makes people think that women should be soft and
men should be strong and brave.
folk songs and traditional stories: where men are praised for being warriors or breadwinners,
and women are often shown doing household work.
These forms of literature repeat the same ideas again and again, and people start believing that
these roles are natural. But in truth, they are created by society. These stories affect how
children grow up and what they believe about boys and girls. To create equality, it is important
to question such stories and promote new ideas that show both men and women as equal and
free to choose their roles.
Long Questions
1. Discuss how gender is socially constructed through family, media, and education.
2. How do gender roles and stereotypes impact individuals in society?
3. Analyze the role of literature and media in reinforcing or challenging gender norms.
Literature and media play a big role in shaping how people think about gender. For many years,
**literature and stories** have shown men as heroes, kings, or leaders, and women as quiet,
caring, or dependent. These roles are repeated in poems, novels, religious texts, and fairy tales,
which makes people believe that men and women should act in a certain way. For example,
stories like *Cinderella* teach that girls should wait for a man to rescue them, and that beauty is
the most important quality. In the same way, **movies, TV shows, songs, and advertisements**
often show women doing housework and men working outside. This reinforces gender norms
and makes it hard for people to break free from these roles. But at the same time, media and
literature can also **challenge these norms**. Today, we see books, films, and web series
where women are shown as strong, independent leaders and men are shown as emotional or
caring fathers. These new images help people understand that anyone can do anything, no
matter their gender. So, literature and media have the power to both support old ideas or bring
positive change by promoting **gender equality and freedom**.
Unit 3- The Girl Child and Women in India
Short Questions (3-6 marks)
1. What is female infanticide? What are its causes?
Female infanticide means killing a baby girl after birth just because she is a girl. It is a cruel
practice that happens in some parts of India and other countries.
Causes:
Preference for sons: Families want sons because they think boys will earn money and take care
of parents.
Dowry system: Girls are seen as a burden because of the money and gifts needed for their
marriage.
Poverty: Poor families feel they cannot afford to raise a girl.
Lack of education: Uneducated people may not understand that boys and girls are equal.
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2. Describe the demographic profile of the girl child in India.
In India, the demographic profile of the girl child shows that girls are often treated unequally.
Sex ratio: There are fewer girls than boys in many parts of the country.
Infant mortality: More girl babies die than boys because they do not get proper care.
Health and nutrition: Girls often get less food and medical attention than boys.
Education: Many girls, especially in rural areas, drop out of school early.
This shows that girl children face discrimination and lack opportunities.
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3. Mention any two issues related to girl child health and nutrition.
Two major issues related to girl child health and nutrition are:
Malnutrition: Many girl children do not get enough healthy food, which affects their growth and
development.
Lack of medical care: Families often give more medical attention to boys, so girls suffer from
untreated diseases and poor health.
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4. Write short notes on:
a) Violence against women
Violence against women refers to any act that causes physical, emotional, sexual, or mental
harm to women. It can happen inside the home (like domestic violence by husbands or family
members), or outside the home (like sexual harassment, rape, or public abuse). Other forms
include dowry deaths, honour killings, and trafficking of women.
Violence against women is a violation of their basic human rights. Many women do not report
violence due to fear, shame, or lack of support. It affects their mental health, self-confidence,
safety, and ability to live a happy life. This problem exists in both rural and urban areas, and
needs strong laws, awareness, and support systems to stop it.
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b) Educational status of girls in rural areas
The educational status of girls in rural areas is still poor in many parts of India. Although the
government has started programs like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, many girls face problems in
getting a proper education.
Some major reasons include poverty, lack of schools near villages, poor transport, and
traditional thinking that girls should stay at home. Many families do not value girls' education
and expect them to help with household work or get married early. Even if girls go to school,
many drop out before finishing.
Girls also face issues like lack of toilets, unsafe school environments, and low-quality teaching.
Because of all these problems, fewer girls in rural areas complete higher education, which limits
their career and life opportunities.
Long Questions (10 marks)
1. Explain the status of health, education, and nutrition of women in India.
In India, women face many challenges when it comes to health, education, and nutrition.
Although some progress has been made, there are still many problems, especially for women in
rural or poor families.
Health:
Many women do not have proper access to healthcare.
Pregnant women often don’t get regular checkups, which leads to maternal deaths.
Diseases like anaemia (lack of iron in blood) are common in women.
In villages, health centers are far away, and many families do not allow women to visit male
doctors.
Women's health is often ignored because of lack of money or gender discrimination.
Education:
While more girls are going to school now, there are still many who drop out early.
Girls in rural areas often stop studying after primary school due to household work, early
marriage, or safety issues.
Families may not want to spend money on a girl’s education, thinking she will leave the house
after marriage.
Lack of female teachers, separate toilets, and safe school transport also affects girls’ education.
As a result, many women remain uneducated or less educated, which limits their job
opportunities.
Nutrition:
Women and girls often get less food or low-quality food than men and boys.
In poor families, men and boys are given the best food, and women eat what is left.
Many women suffer from malnutrition, which makes them weak and unhealthy.
Lack of nutrition also affects pregnant women and their babies.
Proper nutrition is very important for a woman’s overall health and strength.
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2. Discuss the major forms of violence faced by women in India.
Women in India face different types of violence, both inside and outside their homes. This
violence affects their safety, mental health, and human rights.
1. Domestic Violence: This includes physical, emotional, or verbal abuse by husbands or family
members. Many women are beaten, insulted, or controlled at home. Some are even forced to
stay in abusive marriages because they have no support.
Dowry-related violence: In some cases, even after marriage, the groom’s family demands more
dowry (money or gifts). If the woman’s family cannot pay, she may be tortured, abused, or even
killed.
Sexual harassment and rape:Women face harassment in public places, at the workplace, and
even in schools and colleges. Serious crimes like rape have increased, and many women feel
unsafe when traveling or working outside.
Honour killings: In some communities, women who marry outside their caste or religion, or who
are seen as breaking family traditions, are killed by their own families to protect so-called
“honour.”
Trafficking and forced prostitution: Poor women and girls are sometimes kidnapped or tricked
and sold into prostitution or forced labour.
These forms of violence are a big problem in India. Although laws exist, they are not always
followed. Many women stay silent due to fear, shame, or lack of support.
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3. Analyze the reasons and consequences of female feticide in India.
Female feticide means killing a female fetus (baby before birth) just because it is a girl. It is
done using illegal sex determination tests during pregnancy and then aborting the girl child.
Reasons for female feticide:
Preference for sons: Many families in India still believe that sons are more valuable because
they carry the family name, take care of parents in old age, and earn money.
Dowry system: Daughters are seen as a burden because of the dowry that has to be paid during
their marriage.
Lack of education: Uneducated people do not understand that boys and girls are equal.
Cultural beliefs and pressure: Society sometimes pressures women to give birth to a son, and if
they give birth to a girl, they are blamed or punished.
Consequences of female feticide:
1. Declining sex ratio: There are fewer girls compared to boys in many states. This causes an
imbalance in society.
2. Social problems: Due to fewer women, men face difficulty finding brides, which leads to
forced marriages, trafficking of women, and even violence against women.
Disrespect for women: Female feticide shows that girls are not valued. This leads to more
discrimination and violence against women.
Legal issues: Female feticide is illegal in India under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal
Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, but it still happens secretly in many places.
To stop female feticide, we need strict laws, awareness campaigns, and most importantly, a
change in people’s mindset about the value of girls.
Unit IV: Gender Justice
Short Questions (3-6 marks)
1. Mention any two laws related to women’s rights in India
a) Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005:
This law protects women from violence by husbands or family members at home. It includes
physical, emotional, sexual, and verbal abuse. The woman can ask for protection, shelter, and
financial help through the court.
b) Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961:
This law makes it illegal to give or take dowry during marriage. Dowry means money, gifts, or
property given by the bride’s family to the groom’s side. If anyone demands or gives dowry, they
can be punished with a fine or jail.
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2. What are the objectives of gender justice?
Gender justice means giving equal rights, opportunities, and respect to people of all genders,
especially women and girls.
Objectives of gender justice:
Equality: To make sure women and men are treated equally in all areas of life — education,
work, politics, and family.
Protection from discrimination: To stop unfair treatment based on gender and remove old
traditions that harm women.
Empowerment: To help women become strong, independent, and confident in society.
Equal access: To give women the same access to education, healthcare, jobs, and property
rights.
Freedom from violence: To protect women from all types of violence and harassment.
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3. Write short notes on:
a) Women’s reservation
Women’s reservation means reserving a certain percentage of seats for women in government
and decision-making bodies.
At present, 33% seats are reserved for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions (local village-level
government).
A new law has been passed (in 2023) to reserve 33% seats in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies
for women, which will help more women become leaders and take part in politics.
Women’s reservation helps in promoting gender equality and giving women a stronger voice in
government.
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b) National Commission for Women (NCW)
The National Commission for Women (NCW) was set up in 1992 to protect the rights of women
in India.
Functions of NCW:
Looks into complaints from women facing injustice.
Suggests changes in laws to make them better for women.
Studies problems faced by women in society.
Works to spread awareness about women’s rights.
The NCW acts like a watchdog to make sure women are treated fairly and their voices are
heard.
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Long Questions (10 marks)
1. Describe the role of women’s movements in promoting gender equality in India
Women’s movements in India have played a very important role in fighting for gender equality,
women's rights, and social justice. These movements include both organized efforts by women’s
groups and local struggles by women in different parts of the country.
Key roles of women’s movements:
Raising awareness: Women’s movements helped people understand issues like domestic
violence, dowry, rape, sexual harassment, and discrimination against girls.
Changing laws: These movements led to the creation and improvement of laws such as the
Domestic Violence Act, Dowry Prohibition Act, and Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act.
Encouraging education and participation: They promoted education for girls and helped women
take part in politics, jobs, and social services. The demand for 33% reservation for women in
politics is also a result of such efforts.
Support for victims: Many groups provide help to women who face abuse, by giving legal
support, counseling, or shelter.
Challenging stereotypes: Women’s movements challenge traditional ideas that say women are
weak or only meant for household work.
These movements have made society more aware, sensitive, and supportive towards women’s
rights and helped India move closer to gender equality.
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2. Explain any five laws or policies that protect the rights of women and girl children
Here are five important laws and policies that protect women and girls in India:
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005: This law protects women from
violence and abuse by their husbands or in-laws. It includes physical, mental, emotional, sexual,
and economic abuse. Women can get legal protection, shelter, and maintenance.
Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961: This law bans giving or taking dowry during marriage. Asking for
dowry is a punishable crime. It protects women from dowry-related violence and deaths.
The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006: This law stops the marriage of girls below 18 years
and boys below 21 years. It protects girl children from early marriage, which can affect their
health, education, and future.
Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013:
This law protects women from harassment at their workplace. Every office or institution must
have a committee to handle complaints of sexual harassment.
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) Scheme: This is a
government policy to stop female feticide and improve the education and welfare of girl children.
It spreads awareness and supports girl children through education and health programs.
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3. What is gender justice? How can it be achieved through law and activism?
What is Gender Justice?
Gender justice means giving equal treatment, rights, and opportunities to people of all genders,
especially women and girls who have been treated unfairly for years. It aims to remove
inequality, discrimination, and violence based on gender.
It ensures that women get the same respect, resources, and power as men in all areas of life —
education, health, work, politics, and family.
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How can gender justice be achieved through law and activism?
1. Through Law:
Strong laws protect women’s rights and punish those who harm them.
Laws like the Domestic Violence Act, Dowry Prohibition Act, and Child Marriage Act provide
legal support to women and girls.
New laws like women’s reservation in politics also give equal opportunities to women.
Proper implementation is important. Laws should be followed and justice must be given on time.
2. Through Activism:
Activists and women’s groups raise their voice against gender discrimination.
They run campaigns, protests, and awareness programs to educate people about gender
equality.
Activism also helps women speak up and demand their rights.
Media, NGOs, and youth groups play a big role in supporting women’s causes.
