Vol. 12, Special Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
Riya Dhabhai, Dr. Gaytri Tiwari and Dr. Sneha Jain

Abstract:
Gender socialisation is the process through which society makes sure that children learn the appropriate gender-specific behaviours Particularly early childhood plays a sensitive and crucial role in an individual's life as they establish the foundations for their future. The present study was undertaken to assess the gender socialization practices of parents of preschoolers. The total sample for the present study consisted of 120 parents (both mother and father) whose children age ranged from 2.5 – 4 years. A scale was prepared to assess the gender socialization practices (GSPS). The scale was comprised of 172 statements pertaining to various gender-specific parenting practices with regards to, i.e. toys, clothing, food practices, education and occupation. Major findings of the study indicated that the majority of parents had strongly agree and agree opinions towards gender neutral toys, food practises, educational and occupational choices while some parents had disagreed opinions with regards to gender neutral clothing.