Gender and Social Issues in African Societies

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Questions and Answers

Who is the surgeon in the story?

The boy's mother

The boy's sister

The boy's mother, who is also a surgeon (correct)

The boy's father

What is a socio-cultural factor that contributes to gender issues in African societies?

Poverty

Lack of education

Urbanization

Discriminatory cultural practices (correct)

What is the primary objective of Session 1?

To gain a better understanding of the concept of Gender and its related concepts (correct)

To identify efforts made globally to deal with gender inequalities

To justify the need for gender inequality

To discuss the importance of affirmative action

What is sex, according to the passage?

A biological concept Signup and view all the answers

Why are gender relations important in African societies?

Because they determine roles, positions, privileges, and power Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a socialization institution that reinforces gender relations?

Family Signup and view all the answers

What does the quote 'Gender is “the costume, a mask, a straitjacket in which men and women dance their unequal dance”' imply?

That gender is a social construct Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between sex and gender?

Sex is a biological concept, while gender is a social construct Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of legal factors on gender relations?

They reinforce gender stereotypes Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a message that can be sent through social media?

A gendered message that reinforces stereotypes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of identifying efforts made globally to deal with gender inequalities?

To learn from successful strategies and apply them to local contexts Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to discuss the justification for dealing with gender inequality?

To raise awareness about the impacts of gender inequality Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of socialization institutions in shaping gender relations?

They reinforce gender stereotypes Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a discriminatory cultural practice that contributes to gender issues?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary authority figure in a patriarchal social system?

Male Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of patriarchal institutions?

Male privilege Signup and view all the answers

What is true about the manifestation of patriarchy?

It has historically manifested itself in various cultures Signup and view all the answers

What is masculinity according to the concept?

A collective gender identity Signup and view all the answers

What is true about matrilineal inheritance systems?

They do not disrupt patriarchy Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of modern societies described as patriarchal?

They have features of patriarchy Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea conveyed by agency?

People are active and can change their situations through self-conscious action. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of individual agency?

Taking legal action against workplace sexual harassment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of affirmative action?

To address a history of systemic discrimination and exclusion of particular social groups. Signup and view all the answers

What is the origin of affirmative action?

In the USA to address racial discrimination. Signup and view all the answers

What is a type of women's self-help group?

HIV social network group. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a skill that can be learned to improve one's life?

Bread making. Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of taking legal action against gender discriminatory practices?

Triggering change and promoting equality. Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of affirmative action?

Addressing historical injustices and promoting equal opportunities. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary context in which racial and gender disparities are being addressed in South Africa?

After Apartheid Signup and view all the answers

What is the basis of quotas for gender-based affirmative action in South Africa?

Three competing justifications Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a direct affirmative action policy?

Quota for appointed district assembly members Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of girl child education policies?

To promote education for girls and women Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of an indirect affirmative action policy?

Fee-free education Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of science clinics for girls?

To promote participation of women in certain professions Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of affirmative action policies?

To address racial and gender disparities Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a measure to promote participation of women in certain professions?

Measures to promote participation of women in certain professions Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Surgeon's Identity

The surgeon is the boy's mother.

Socio-Cultural Factors Affecting Gender

Social construction of society leads to discriminatory cultural practices.
Discriminatory inheritance practices exist in African societies.
Marriage practices, such as polygamy, and widowhood rites affect gender roles.
Family and community life factors, including chores, decision-making, and role expectations, influence gender dynamics.
Reproductive health decisions, including family planning and sexuality, are affected by socio-cultural factors.

Importance of Gender in African Societies

Gender is important for social relations, including class, kinship, and power dynamics.
Socialisation institutions, such as family, church, school, media, and work, reinforce gender relations.

Legal Factors Affecting Gender

Customary laws and state laws can reinforce or challenge discriminatory gender practices.

Definition of Gender

Gender is a social construct specifying socially and culturally prescribed ideas about behavior, actions, and roles.

Patriarchy

Patriarchy is a social system where males hold authority over women, children, other men, and property.
It implies institutions of male rule and privilege, dependent on female subordination.
Patriarchy has manifested in various cultures and civilizations throughout history.

Masculinities

Masculinity signifies a collective gender identity, not a natural attribute.

Agency and Change

Agency refers to people's ability to change their situations through conscious action.
Examples of agency include self-help groups, micro-finance initiatives, and individual actions that trigger change.

Affirmative Action

Affirmative action refers to temporary measures adopted to address systemic discrimination and exclusion of particular social groups.
It aims to redress inequalities and promote development goals.
Origins of affirmative action can be traced back to the USA and South Africa.

Types of Affirmative Action

Direct affirmative action includes quotas, reservations of seats, and targeted investments in infrastructure, education, and health.
Indirect affirmative action includes scholarship schemes, fee-free education, and free textbooks and uniforms.

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Description

This quiz explores the significance of gender in African societies, focusing on socio-cultural factors and discriminatory practices.