Today’s younger generations are making strides toward breaking down traditional gender roles and outdated stereotypes. Yet, the truth remains that many of these norms persist in our society, often unnoticed. It’s somewhat ironic given that some of the most entrenched gender roles are also quite peculiar.
Issues such as abortion rights and the gender pay gap draw significant national (and international) debate – and rightly so. Nonetheless, there are countless smaller, everyday situations where individuals—regardless of gender—face different treatment or outright discrimination.
Let’s explore some of the more unusual distinctions in how society treats various genders. Although these “gender norms” may not endure forever, it is essential to acknowledge them today, even if they evoke a cringe response for being outdated.
1. Baby Changing Tables
Walk into nearly any women’s restroom across the country, and chances are you’ll spot at least one baby changing table. Sometimes, these are conveniently placed in the restroom’s public area; other times, they’re located in handicap stalls for added room and privacy.
These changing stations provide invaluable support for busy mothers who need to tend to their infants while grocery shopping or enjoying a day out.
However, have you ever stopped to think about the absence of changing tables in most men’s restrooms?
Admittedly, newer facilities typically incorporate changing tables into both men’s and women’s restrooms. However, older establishments that haven’t undergone recent updates often lack this essential feature.
In 2016, President Obama enacted the BABIES Act, mandating the installation of changing tables in all public restrooms located within government buildings. Yet, private businesses are not required to follow suit, leaving men and non-binary individuals in awkward (and often messy) situations. They are frequently forced to improvise methods for changing their babies or wait until they locate a restroom equipped with a changing station.
2. Women’s Clothing and the Pocket Dilemma
Have you ever found yourself complimenting a woman on her new dress? Attentive observers can quickly gauge her level of enthusiasm based on whether she mentions the presence of pockets.
While this might sound humorous, the underlying truth is serious. Ask any woman about her feelings on clothing equipped with pockets, and you’re likely to receive an animated “yes!” in response. Generally, the pockets found in women’s jeans, trousers, and tops tend to be impractically small, serving more as a fashion element than a functional addition.
This pocket issue doesn’t just emerge from thin air; it has a perplexing, sexist history. For centuries, women have advocated for more substantial pockets, dating as far back as the 17th century. Unfortunately, societal trends have prioritized aesthetics over practicality, compelling women to adapt by carrying oversized bags to accommodate their essentials.
We can only hope that one day, those heavy purses can be wielded as tools of empowerment against patriarchal norms.
3. Car Insurance Discrepancies
While many are familiar with the blatant issues surrounding the gender pay gap, few realize that financial inequalities extend far beyond the workplace.
Research indicates that women often pay higher premiums for car insurance than men, despite having fewer accidents. A 2020 study by The Zebra revealed that women could pay up to 7.6% more than their male counterparts.
Perhaps the most frustrating aspect is the absence of a clear rationale for this discrepancy. Some states have enacted “gender bans” on car insurance premiums, but a nationwide prohibition has yet to be established. The lack of justification for elevated costs faced by female drivers renders this peculiar practice a flagrant disregard for fairness.
4. The “Pink Tax” Phenomenon
Many individuals have at least a passing awareness of the “pink tax,” yet few grasp its full implications. Although it isn’t a tax in the strictest sense, the term describes the phenomenon where products marketed toward women often come with a higher price tag than those aimed at men. Some of the most notable examples include:
• Soaps
• Lotions
• Razors
• Deodorants
While brands may deny the existence of a pink tax on their products, careful comparisons reveal that women frequently pay more for similar items as men. Coupled with the fact that many women earn less than their male counterparts, the disparity becomes even more pronounced.
Regrettably, these four peculiar practices are merely the tip of the iceberg when examining the uneven treatment of genders in society. Though changing attitudes and progress are evident, it is clear we have a long journey ahead to achieve true equality.
