A Level Sociology Education AQA Practice Exam

What does the term "double standards" refer to in the context of gender behavior?

1. Equal treatment in all circumstances

2. Boys and girls receiving identical feedback

3. Boys boast about sexual exploits while girls are judged negatively

4. Girls encouraging boys to engage in risky behavior

The correct answer is: Boys boast about sexual exploits while girls are judged negatively

The term "double standards" in the context of gender behavior specifically highlights the unequal societal expectations placed on boys and girls, particularly regarding their sexual behavior. Option C is correct because it illustrates how boys are often praised or boastful about their sexual exploits, while girls are subjected to negative judgment for the same behaviors. This reflects the broader cultural norms that favor male promiscuity while shaming female promiscuity, demonstrating a clear inconsistency in how individuals are assessed based on their gender. In contrast, the other choices do not accurately encapsulate the idea of double standards. Equal treatment in all circumstances suggests a lack of disparity, which contradicts the very notion of double standards. Similarly, boys and girls receiving identical feedback implies uniformity in societal responses, denying the existence of bias. Finally, girls encouraging boys to engage in risky behavior does not inherently illustrate the concept of double standards, but rather portrays a dynamic in peer influence, which does not directly address inconsistent standards of judgment based on gender. Thus, the concept of double standards is best illustrated through the contrasting societal reactions to similar behaviors exhibited by boys and girls, as seen in option C.