THE IMPACT OF SOCIETY'S SOCIAL STRUCTURE ON GENDER ROLES: SOCIETAL PERCEPTIONS OF WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP

Abstract

This article examines the impact of society's social structure on gender roles and how this impact is reflected in societal perceptions of women's leadership, utilizing a literature review methodology. Social structure is defined as the entirety of norms, values, institutions, and relationships that shape the behaviors, expectations, and opportunities of individuals and groups. Gender roles, on the other hand, are socially constructed patterns of expectations and behaviors attributed to women and men within this social structure.

The article discusses societal attitudes towards women leaders, stereotypes, media representations, and approaches in different cultural contexts, in light of theoretical frameworks such as Social Identity Theory, Social Role Theory, and the Glass Ceiling Syndrome. Findings from the literature indicate that gender stereotypes and biases play a significant role in the evaluation of women leaders' competence and success. The barriers women face in ascending to leadership positions and strategies to overcome these obstacles are discussed, and policy and societal recommendations are presented to empower women's leadership.

The research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of current perceptions of women's leadership and to efforts towards achieving gender equality.