why are boys given more importance than girls in the Indian society Re...
1.A boy is widely viewed as an asset; a future breadwinner and caregiver who will look after his parents when they become old.
2. A girl, on the other hand, is seen as a liability, as parents are often pressured to pay dowries when their daughters marry.
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why are boys given more importance than girls in the Indian society Re...
Introduction:
In Indian society, there exists a prevailing bias towards boys, which is reflected in the way they are given more importance compared to girls. This bias can be traced back to various socio-cultural, historical, and economic factors that have shaped the mindset of the society. Let us delve deeper into the reasons behind this disparity.
Socio-cultural factors:
1. Patriarchal norms: Indian society has traditionally been patriarchal, where males are considered the primary breadwinners and decision-makers. This mindset perpetuates the belief that boys carry the family name and lineage forward, leading to their preferential treatment.
2. Dowry system: The existence of the dowry system further reinforces the preference for boys. Families often see girls as financial burdens due to the expectation of providing a hefty dowry during their marriage, while boys are seen as assets who will bring in dowry.
3. Honor and reputation: Society places a significant emphasis on preserving the honor and reputation of the family. Girls are often perceived as potential threats to the family's honor due to concerns about their safety and chastity. Hence, boys are given more importance to safeguard the family's reputation.
Economic factors:
1. Inheritance and property rights: In many parts of India, property and inheritance laws favor male heirs. This leads to the perception that boys will provide economic stability to the family, while girls will eventually leave after marriage.
2. Labor force participation: Historically, men have been more likely to engage in paid employment, while women were confined to domestic roles. This has perpetuated the belief that boys are more valuable as they contribute to the family's income and financial security.
Education:
1. Limited access to education: Despite progress in recent years, girls still face barriers to education, including societal norms, safety concerns, and lack of infrastructure. This limits their opportunities for personal and professional growth, reinforcing the notion that boys are more important.
2. Gender stereotypes: Gender biases in education perpetuate the notion that boys are intellectually superior. This discourages girls from pursuing higher education and denies them equal opportunities.
Conclusion:
The preference for boys over girls in Indian society is deeply rooted in socio-cultural and economic factors. Challenging these biases requires a concerted effort to promote gender equality, empower girls through education, and challenge patriarchal norms. It is essential to recognize the inherent worth and potential of every individual, irrespective of their gender, to build a more equitable society.
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