Exploring the Social Implications of Patriarchal Influences in Schools

Abstract

What it means to be masculine can be defined in different ways, though there tends to be popular definitions associated with dominance, aggression, and control. Such popular definitions create problems, particularly when it comes to the social spaces within a school. This is particularly the case for schools that are not engaged in teaching gender equality, or are actively promoting a certain kind of gender discrimination. This paper will explore such issues and discuss the problems inherent in popular definitions and understanding of masculinity. In addition, it will look at the specific situation of Iran, where the schools emphasize gender roles to the point of discrimination in the form of reinforcing patriarchal stereotypes and masculine superiority.