Double Standards in American Society

There are many ways in American culture in which gender inequality is very apparent, the most obvious being those of double standards.  Double standards have become such a norm in our society that when they occur no one questions them because it’s what accepted and that is the problem with them (any many other things that reinforce inequality between genders).  When you start to notice what’s acceptable for one gender and isn’t for another, it really sticks out to you and to be honest, it’s rather ridiculous. But what's considered acceptable for a gender role? 

I was at Starbucks last week and the kid in front of me in line was wearing a purple shirt (it was a really nice shade of pale lilac- I nearly asked him where he got it, but what was said next stopped me in my tracks) and the two obnoxious teenage boys behind me were joking that this kid, who was probably nine or 10, was gay and how only girls wear purple and when a guy wears purple it means he isn’t “a man for not wearing blue.” Not only did this thoroughly piss me off, but it was so stupid.  So what if this kid wants to wear purple? It looks great on him and doesn't say anything about his character except for the fact that he has a great taste in coloured shirts.  People should wear whatever they want without having people question their sexuality or whatever be cause of it.  Whether or not that kid was gay, it would't've mattered.  Who said boys couldn't wear lilac? George Washington?

In every “chick-flick” I’ve ever seen, there’s a hardworking woman who is great at her job and works hard, but she’s always portrayed as being a bitch simply because she works hard and is assertive.  She usually doesn’t have a boyfriend because she’s “too focused on her work,” which is rather admirable, but is always questioned why she hasn’t settled down yet with a nice guy.  Whereas, if a guy is too focused on his work, he’s seen as dedicated and when he says he isn’t ready to start a family the general response is something along the lines of, “That’s really cool for you, wanting to establish yourself.  You should focus on work and being successful rather than jumping off to have a family.” Why should a woman be criticised for working hard by being “selfish” that she hasn’t started a family yet. Why is it so wrong for a woman to want to have a career?  The conflict of the ages addressed in many movies is love or career.  But why not both?

Nothing is more fun than a night out on the town with your friends.  Getting dressed up, going to a glamorous  restaurant, and having a fun evening is such an appealing thing to do after a hard week at work.  I know that when I go out to dinner with my friends, I really take the time to choose a nice outfit and to spend more time than usual on my makeup because its fun and a relaxing way to start the evening.  When girls go out in their cute dresses, sassy heels, and incredible makeup, they’re seen as trampy or easy whereas men are seen as classy and sophisticated.  How does wearing a dress make me a slut? I just wanted to look super cute and have fun with my friends?  Not only is the woman seen as trampy, but vain as well.  Maybe it’s possible that she was trying to look nice and impress herself rather than you Mr. Misogynist.

What I’m trying to say is that these double standards (and dozens of others) have become incorporated in society as normal, perfectly acceptable things.  Their acceptance is rooted in age-old ideals that man are superior to women and the certain duties each has.  Women are supposed to get married have children; clean the house, etc. etc.  Men are supposed to get a job, be successful, support a family, and be a strong, hearty role model.  But women can’t be because it’s dinner time.