Summary Of Down To Earth Sociology By Donna Eder
In Henslin’s Down to Earth Sociology, Donna Eder writes about becoming a female and the lessons learned in middle school.
As we know all too well, women are judged by their appearance every day, leaving them feeling insecure and self-consciousness, constantly wondering if they are socially accepted, according to society standards. It is indisputable how influential socialization truly is.
One of the strongest points that Donna Eder makes, was when she mentioned what was expected of a cheerleader, in order to be considered a part of the team. She goes on to explain that the judges never once consider judging the young lady based on her abilities but, much rather on her appearance and the impression she leaves on the audience.
It is not surprising
to me why a number of our younger female generations are killing themselves in order to become what society says is socially acceptable.
I myself went through middle school having to deal with the same social anxieties that come with not being appealing enough, thin enough or even fun enough. I went through middle school thinking that I would never fit in or ever be socially accepted because of the way I dressed, looked and acted. I remember waking up for school several hours earlier to assure my hair and make-up was done well enough to be noticed but not be the topic of gossip. I remember trying so hard to fit in only to lose my sense of worth. This is by no means a way for a young girl to grow up.
The irony of all this is that girls are left to believe that their appearances are far more important than what they can potentially become. As women, we must struggle to overcome this unfortunate stigma placed on us in order to accomplish a real impact. I say be smart, independent and a powerful woman, for the reason that beauty lasts but so long.
As we know all too well, women are judged by their appearance every day, leaving them feeling insecure and self-consciousness, constantly wondering if they are socially accepted, according to society standards. It is indisputable how influential socialization truly is.
One of the strongest points that Donna Eder makes, was when she mentioned what was expected of a cheerleader, in order to be considered a part of the team. She goes on to explain that the judges never once consider judging the young lady based on her abilities but, much rather on her appearance and the impression she leaves on the audience.
It is not surprising
to me why a number of our younger female generations are killing themselves in order to become what society says is socially acceptable.
I myself went through middle school having to deal with the same social anxieties that come with not being appealing enough, thin enough or even fun enough. I went through middle school thinking that I would never fit in or ever be socially accepted because of the way I dressed, looked and acted. I remember waking up for school several hours earlier to assure my hair and make-up was done well enough to be noticed but not be the topic of gossip. I remember trying so hard to fit in only to lose my sense of worth. This is by no means a way for a young girl to grow up.
The irony of all this is that girls are left to believe that their appearances are far more important than what they can potentially become. As women, we must struggle to overcome this unfortunate stigma placed on us in order to accomplish a real impact. I say be smart, independent and a powerful woman, for the reason that beauty lasts but so long.