The affects of gender roles on people greatly change the way the society runs. According to the Webster's dictionary the definition of gender are the behavioral, cultural, or psychological traits typically associated with one sex, and the definition of role is a character assigned or assumed. The key word in this definition is assumed; therefore, whether you are male or female, you know what role you must play in society. Traditional gender roles are beneficial to society. They benefit society in many ways including keeping stability, order and generally making life easier. Women have to work two jobs: outside the home and within the home, taking care of the children. Children that are not raised by their parents do not end up as well as kids that are. These are some of the many reasons why many believe we should have traditional gender roles. .
Parents are, of course, not the only social agents to influence children's sex typing. Teacher, the media and friendship groups also exert pressure on both boys and girls to act a certain way, conforming to particular stereotypes. Peer pressure, in particular, is significant and influential as it continues throughout childhood into adolescence. Additionally, peer relations can sometimes be seen as more demanding for conformity than parental pressure. At any age, children could be bullied when they adopt inappropriate behavior for their gender, which is shown in a study conducted by Langlois and Downs (1980). They established how, there appears to be more pressure on boys than girls even as young as three. "Sissy" behavior is not tolerated by peers, or especially in boys, whereas 'tomboyish' behavior is more acceptable in daughters. .
"We've begun to raise daughters more like sons but few have the courage to raise our sons more like our daughters." (Gloria Steinem) Gender roles will continue from birth. No matter where you go, gender roles are always being pointed out among boys and girls.