SOC 220: Introduction to Gender

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
District General Education: D2. Behavioral Science
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter

Catalog Course Description

This course is an introduction to the sociological analysis of gender in contemporary American society. It focuses on macro level analyses of how institutions shape gender and micro level analyses of how individuals are socialized and how they "do" and practice gender. 54 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • Compare and contrast sociological perspectives used to interpret gender relations.
  • Differentiate between the terms sex and gender and discuss their differences within the larger social context of gendered relations.
  • Describe gender ideology and practices in multiple social institutions in society.
  • Identify the interplay of race, ethnicity, class, and sexuality affecting gender relations.
  • Identify the main agents of gender socialization and their impact on children's and adults' gender construction.
  • Outline the process by which people negotiate power and gender boundaries through their relationships with others (including violent relationships).
  • Identify social and political movements to change gender inequalities and gender practices.

Major Course Content

  1. Introduction to the Sociology of Gender and the Issues of Women and Men
  2. Major Theoretical Paradigms and Research Methods in Sociology
  3. Biological, Psychological, and Socio-Cultural Construction of Sex and Gender
  4. Gender, Agents of Socialization, the Socialization Process, and Gender Development
  5. Gender, Language, Communication, and Social Interactions
  6. Gender, Intimate Relations, Family Relations, and Lifespan
  7. Gender and the Social Construction of Sexuality
  8. Variations of Masculinity and Femininity
  9. Economic, Racial, Ethnic, Migrant, Sexuality, and Cross-Cultural Variations
  10. Gender and Social Institutions (including Education, Politics, Religion, Work, Healthcare, Media, and the Economy)
  11. Gender Politics, Women’s Movements, Men’s Movements, and Feminist Struggles

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Online articles provided by instructor.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

The purpose of this paper assignment is to focus on a particular topic of interest and expand upon it. You will take an aspect of gender in the United States that is of interest to you. You will submit a paper of 3-4 pages in length on a topic of your choice. This will include a review of literature in any area of research of particular interest to you. A minimum of three (3) outside sources must be reviewed (meaning 3 sources besides your textbook). Each source should be analyzed from a critical perspective paying particular attention to the author’s main points. This paper will include research findings about your topic, as well as a demonstration of your understanding of sociological concepts and theories. Incorporate what you have learned in class and from reading the text.

Examples of Outside Assignments

The purpose of this assignment is to give you practice in conducting internet research on a given topic. Choose one of the theories discussed in your book and do an internet search for student papers written on that theory. Read at least three "student written" papers, and answer the following questions. 1. What new information have you gained by reading these papers? List and be specific. 2. Did the students write in a way that was more understandable to your way of thinking? How? 3. Give a brief explanation of your particular theory. 4. Please cite your sources.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Online Education Lecture

IGETC Area 4: Social and Behavioral Sciences

4J. Sociology & Criminology