MASCULINITY

EARLY INFLUENCES

• Much of our ideas and stereotypes originate from childhood influences
• These influences have shaped our ways of life
• Include: religion and values of life

TOYS

• Major influence
• Typically boys have toys that involve vehicle and tools
• Typically girls have toys involving kitchen equipment and princess castles

Left: girls ads - pink, involves toys such as princesses', dress up and mirror/make up bench
Right: boy ads - blue, involves mainly construction, influences them to believe that being masculine involves being hands on and working in construction or as a tradie

CHALLENGED

• However occasionally these stereotypes are challenged
• Increasing popularity has occurred in unisex toys
• Such a change could potentially alter the next generations perception of masculinity and femininityt
• Example: playdough - such a toy is not bound to gender specifics and can be utilised to its fullest potential but both boys and girls.

CHALLENGING FURTHER

• Toys typically meant for boys being advertised with girls
• Challenges stereotypes and teaches children that society is not necessarily genderedised.