The topic of how individuals navigate the contradiction between their desired and assigned roles is an important one that has been explored in various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, gender studies, and anthropology. In this article, we will examine the ways in which individuals negotiate these contradictions in their everyday lives. We will also consider the consequences of these conflicts for personal wellbeing and social structures.
Individual Negotiation
One way that individuals can navigate the tension between their desired and assigned roles is through negotiation. This involves actively communicating to others what they desire from a given role, and working together to find compromises that satisfy both parties.
If a man wants to pursue a career in childcare but feels pressure to conform to traditional masculine norms of being breadwinner, he may negotiate with his partner to share household responsibilities equally. Similarly, a woman who aspires to become a leader at work may negotiate with her employer for flexible hours or other accommodations that allow her to balance her family life and professional ambitions.
Role Conflation
Another strategy used by individuals to reconcile conflicting desires is role conflation. This involves blending different aspects of multiple roles into one, creating a hybrid identity that combines elements of several identities into a new whole.
A stay-at-home parent who enjoys cooking and baking might see themselves as both homemaker and chef, or a working mother who loves fashion might view herself as a corporate executive with an eye for style. By combining aspects of different roles, individuals can create a unique identity that better reflects their own needs and desires.
Rejection of Assigned Roles
Some people choose to reject assigned roles altogether, embracing instead their own individuality and self-expression. This could mean rejecting social expectations about gender, race, class, or any other aspect of identity that constrains them. Some transgender individuals, for example, might choose to live authentically as the gender they feel most comfortable with despite societal pressures to conform to binary norms. Others might defy cultural expectations about what it means to be successful in their field, pursuing their passion rather than chasing status symbols.
How do individuals navigate contradictions between desired and assigned roles?
Individuals may navigate contradictions between their desired and assigned roles by recognizing and accepting them, reassessing their expectations, adapting to new situations, negotiating with others, seeking support from trusted sources, and prioritizing personal needs over social norms. They can also learn to balance work and family responsibilities through effective time management, delegation, and communication.