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The construction of gender defines identity, impacting the whole of society, requiring a degree of conformity to sustain social order and a binary definition of gender. Feminine and masculine stereotypes plague society, impacting the individual in a harsh and unhealthy manner by removing aspects of identity. To follow the gender role placated by socialization, an individual must become a polar force, forgoing natural inclinations and a healthy existence. The stereotype enforces the removal of all opposite-gender characteristics, in effect removing the true identity of the individual, being that all individuals are an amalgamation of both gender positioned to varying degrees. Appearance, dress, experiences, and relationships are all regulated by gender perceptions concerning how women and men should act in accordance with their sex.

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Many life experiences are gender influenced, deeming only men or only women able to fulfill certain life objectives. The role of child caretaker is reserved for the female, leaving the male the traditional source of income in a family. Masculinity directly correlates with dominance in a relationship, especially in public situations, subduing the feminine role in public. Professions such as waitresses, housekeepers, seamstresses, elementary school teachers and secretaries are stereotypically feminine jobs. Professions such as construction worker, physician, garbage man, truck driver, military personnel and all physical labor professions are traditionally male-dominated jobs.
 

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