Gay Men and Gender Roles

Social, cognitive, feminist, and queer theoretical frameworks all account for various aspects of gay men’s gender roles. Although these different theoretical perspectives are beyond the scope of this entry, their implications are synthesized in this discussion to account for gay men’s gender roles. This entry briefly defines gender roles and describes the influence of gender role orientation on romantic relationship functioning and career development. Last, this entry discusses the interaction of gender role conflict and its consequences for gay men.

Gender Role Orientation

Gender roles are ecologically prescribed beliefs, expectations, and standards that reinforce gender-related attitudes and behaviors. Gender roles are often viewed within the dimensions of masculinity, femininity, and androgyny. Gender roles also function as a psychological script that dictates the manner in which one ...

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