What is the Difference Between Gender and Gender Roles?

The difference between gender and gender roles lies in the distinction between biological and sociological aspects of an individual's identity. Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, and attributes that a particular society considers appropriate for men and women. On the other hand, gender roles are the separate standards of behavior that society expects depending on whether a person is biologically male or female. In summary:

• Gender: Refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, and attributes that a society considers appropriate for men and women.
• Gender Roles: The separate standards of behavior that society expects depending on an individual's biological sex.

Gender roles can vary across different societies, ethnic groups, and cultures, and they can change over time. These roles are often influenced by sociological aspects, such as parental upbringing and societal norms. In contrast, biological factors also play a role in shaping an individual's identity and behavior. Gender roles have evolved over time, and there is considerable diversity in gender roles both within and across cultures.

Comparative Table: Gender vs Gender Roles

The difference between gender and gender roles can be understood through the following table:

In summary, gender refers to the socially constructed distinctions between male and female, while gender roles are the patterns of behaviors, attitudes, and expectations associated with each gender. Gender is a core aspect of identity and socialization, while gender roles are influenced by cultural norms and societal expectations.