Parents may perpetuate gender-role stereotypes through differential reinforcement of their children's behavior.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Differential reinforcement refers to when parents give attention or rewards to certain behaviors while ignoring or punishing others. When parents consistently reinforce gender-stereotypical behavior, they are perpetuating gender-role stereotypes. For example, if a mother rewards her daughter for playing with dolls and dressing up but ignores or discourages her son from doing the same, she is encouraging traditional gender roles.

Parents May Perpetuate Gender-Role Stereotypes Through Differential Reinforcement of Their