No One Wants to Be a "Girlie Girl"

• In Event: The Intersections of Gender Diversity

Abstract

This paper details the analysis of data from two multiple case studies. Findings suggest participants were conscious of the stereotypical "girlie-girl" identity, viewing it as weak, passive, and shallow. Participants actively worked to disassociate from this gender identity through their words, actions, and self-presentations. They understood gender in dichotomous terms, with stereotypically male traits favored and more desirable. Descriptions of “girl” focused on appearance (likes pink, wears dresses), while those for boys focused on character (bravery, strength). Findings suggest students could benefit from discussions about gender identity and complexity, yet spaces these critical discussions were not available to them in their classrooms, even as the texts they were reading invited them.

Author

• Amy Burke, Texas Woman's University