Theories of gender inequality

Abstract

By the end of this chapter you should:

• be aware of a wide range of sociological theories on gender inequality;

• be able to distinguish between three broad approaches to the question of gender inequality, namely sex and gender socialisation models, structural theories of patriarchy and sex and gender formation approaches;

• have a critical understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each approach;

• be aware of the variety of theories contained within each broad approach;

• have practised structured exam questions.