Labor within the family was traditionally divided along gender lines, with the male and female genders being assigned specific responsibilities. Men were assigned the tedious tasks that involved the use of immense power, and this was attributed to their general physical strength (Andersen & Witham, 2011). The labor men performed based on this rationale has evolved due to the changes that have accompanied various human civilizations, with agriculture eliminating tasks such as hunting. Women were generally assigned duties that involved nurturing and caring (Andersen & Witham, 2011). These include home chores such as cooking, cleaning, and looking after children. This was attributed to their caring nature and the fact that they were considered better nurturers.
Changes
The division of labor in the modern world still exists despite the push for gender equality. This phenomenon is, however, not as pronounced as it was before (Andersen & Witham, 2011). More men are involved in the kitchen, helping their women cook. Women are increasingly indulged in some manual chores that were a reserve for men. In the wider context of the community, division of labor is visible in the saturation of some careers with a specific gender (Andersen & Witham, 2011). Careers that require friendliness, and nurturing are generally saturated with women. These include nannies, kindergarten teachers, daycare workers, nurses, waitresses, and bartenders. Men make the majority of the workforce in careers that require immense physical strength and technicality. These jobs include construction, masonry, plumbing, electrician jobs, and driving.
Cross-Cultural Differences
Amongst different cultures, the roles of women and men varied traditionally and still do currently. In developed nations, there is limited gender roles division compared to developing nations (Andersen & Witham, 2011). In many developing nations, women are mainly uneducated due to backward cultures and are therefore restricted to the kitchen and feminine roles at home. Based on the economic activities that people in an area indulge in, their gender roles also vary.
Personal Experience
At our home, there is a reasonable division of roles based on gender. The men in our home are responsible for carrying heavy things around the home while women are responsible for nurturing the family. I find the restriction of women to kitchen chores an error that makes basic survival life skills gendered roles. It is my view that chores such as cooking and cleaning can be performed by anybody.
Reference
Andersen, M. & Witham, D. H. (2011). Thinking about women: Sociological perspectives on sex and gender (9th ed.). Allyn & Bacon.