Adolescence is a time of great change and discovery. It's a time when individuals begin to explore their own identity, including their sexuality. Unfortunately, many teens face pressure from society that tries to restrict them within rigid gender roles and expectations.
There are many ways they can push back against these norms. This article will discuss how adolescents resist or subvert traditional gender norms during sexual exploration and the relational and social consequences that come with it.
One way adolescents may challenge traditional gender roles is through experimentation with their physical appearance.
Some girls might wear traditionally masculine clothing or cut their hair short while others might wear more feminine styles. Similarly, some boys may grow out their hair long or dress in more flamboyant clothes.
Adolescents may experiment with makeup and cosmetics regardless of their gender identity. This type of self-expression can be seen as a form of rebellion against society's expectations of what it means to be "masculine" or "feminine."
Another way adolescents may challenge traditional gender roles is through sexual behavior. Some may engage in same-sex relationships, which goes against societal norms for heteronormative relationships. Others may have non-traditional sexual encounters such as threesomes or other group sex activities. While this type of behavior is often considered taboo, it is becoming increasingly accepted by society as a whole.
Adolescents may also challenge traditional gender roles by rejecting traditional gendered behaviors.
Boys may take on more domestic duties such as cooking or cleaning, while girls may pursue traditionally male hobbies like sports or video games. These actions demonstrate that individuals are not limited by their assigned gender roles but rather create their own identities based on personal preferences.
Despite challenging traditional gender roles during sexual exploration, there are consequences associated with doing so. Adolescents who break from society's expectations may face social stigma and judgment from peers or family members. They may also experience difficulties finding partners who share their viewpoints on gender norms.
These difficulties should not discourage individuals from expressing themselves authentically.
Despite the risks, adolescence offers an opportunity for individuals to explore their identity without fear of judgement or repercussion. By pushing back against traditional gender roles, adolescents can build a foundation for self-expression and acceptance in later life. As we continue to evolve our understanding of gender, it's crucial to support young people in their search for their authentic selves and allow them to make choices about their lives without imposing societal norms.
How do adolescents resist or subvert traditional gender norms during sexual exploration, and what are the relational and social consequences?
According to researchers, adolescents engage in sexual exploration as a way of discovering their identity and establishing their place within society (Bartkowski & Ream, 2016). During this process, they may challenge traditional gender norms by experimenting with nontraditional roles and relationships, such as same-sex partnerships or cross-dressing (Manning, 2009).