The performance of school events can be seen as a form of ritualized behavior that reinforces gender roles and sexual competition among peers. It begins from an early age when children are taught to act in certain ways based on their assigned genders. Boys are encouraged to be assertive and competitive while girls are expected to be passive and submissive. This leads to a culture where boys compete for status and power through physical prowess and sexual conquest while girls compete for attention and affection through beauty and feminine charm.
During these performances, students dress up in revealing clothing and often engage in flirtatious behavior. The performative nature of these events emphasizes sexual attraction and romantic relationships, which further reinforces the idea that one's worth is tied to one's appearance and sexual attractiveness. As they get older, this behavior becomes more intense and often leads to objectification and dehumanization of other people.
During prom night or homecoming dances, students may dress up in provocative outfits and dance suggestively, leading to a culture of male entitlement and female objectification.
School events such as sports games and cheerleading competitions create a hierarchy of masculinity and femininity. Males compete with each other for dominance and recognition, while females are judged by their physical appearance and sexuality. The winners are often rewarded with praise and admiration, reinforcing the notion that success is linked to being desirable. The losers are mocked and shamed, creating a culture of embarrassment and humiliation.
The pressure to conform to gender norms can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among students. Those who do not fit into traditional gender roles or who identify as LGBTQ+ are often subject to bullying and harassment. This creates an atmosphere of fear and shame around non-conforming identities, perpetuating the idea that there is only one way to be "normal."
To address this issue, schools should strive to create an environment where all genders are respected and valued equally. They should promote body positivity and inclusivity, encouraging students to celebrate their unique identities without judgment or criticism. School events should also focus on academic achievement and personal growth rather than romantic relationships and sexual conquest. By doing so, they can help students develop positive relationships based on mutual respect and support, free from the pressures of sexual competition.
How does the performative nature of school events contribute to the internalization of sexual competition among peers?
"The performative nature of school events contributes to the internalization of sexual competition among peers by emphasizing social norms around gender roles, creating an environment where individuals feel pressure to conform to certain standards of attractiveness and desirability, and reinforcing stereotypes about masculinity and femininity.