Question

Research indicates that mothers talk more to girls, that parents talk more about emotions to girls, that parents put more pressure on boys to suppress crying, and that teachers are more disapproving of girls than of boys when they are highly active. Which of the following theories argues that these modeling and rewarding processes are the most important influences on sex differences in behavior?

a. Information processing theories
b. Psychoanalytic (Freudian) theories
c. Social learning theories
d. Behavioral genetics theories

Answer 1

The theory that states modeling and rewarding processes are most influential on sex differences in behavior is Social learning theories. These theories highlight the role of observation and reinforcement from parents and teachers in establishing gender norms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The theory that argues that modeling and rewarding processes are the most important influences on sex differences in behavior is c. Social learning theories. These theories suggest that children learn behaviors and norms through observation, imitation, and reinforcement. For example, research has found that boys and girls receive different toys and encouragement, perpetuating gender roles, with boys often receiving more active toys and girls receiving toys that foster nurturing.

These observations extend beyond the household, with teachers providing different levels of praise and attention based on gender, contributing further to the reinforcement of gender roles. Teachers often interact differently with students based on their gender, reinforcing competition among boys while expecting girls to be more passive and obedient.

Additionally, despite aims for gender equality, parents still engage in different socialization for their sons and daughters, with expectations of gender conformity often being firmer from fathers, particularly for sons. This differential treatment is seen in the types of chores assigned, discipline, and activities encouraged.