Whenever Julie played with toy vehicles or blocks, her mother would be very disapproving. Whenever she played with dolls and domestic toys, her mother would smile and praise her. As Julie grew up, she played less and less with "boys'" toys and more and more with dolls, dollhouses, and domestic accessories. This description of gender-role development exemplifies:
A) social learning theory.
B) evolutionary theory.
C) gender schema theory.
D) gender identity theory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This description of Julie's gender role development exemplifies social learning theory, which posits that children learn gender roles and behaviors by observing and imitating those around them, particularly their parents and other influential adults. Julie's mother's disapproval of "boys'" toys and approval of domestic toys likely influenced Julie's preferences and behaviors over time.

Whenever Julie Played with Toy Vehicles or Blocks, Her Mother