Fitting Into a Particular Societal Identity or Norm Essay

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Social Identities in a Society

The concept of social identity encompasses psychological, emotional, and evaluative aspects engulfed in a person's physical attributes. The fundamental significance of social identities spreads to how individuals think about others and personal well-being. The psychological foundation of social identity and the role of social categorization in human action and perception occur as building blocks in the definition of this concept. Social identities influence individual responses to others. Further, shaping identity processes improves personal and intergroup relations. For a long time, a personal identity that operates within psychology occurs as a critical aspect of individual functioning, actual accomplishment, and feelings of well-being. The significance of social behavior spreads to significant reference groups like racial group membership and intergroup relations.

Privileges Resulting from Individual Social Identities

Self-exploration occurs as a primary factor in the growth of individuals; the relationships fostered with others, and the ability to promote equity. Social identities include race, gender, sex, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, ability, and religion, amongst others. These aspects occur as crucial factors that facilitate shaping of behaviors, worldviews, experiences, and attitudes. It is crucial to individual identities, critical elements that foster interactions between individuals and the whole community.

Personally, I have come to appreciate the role of social identities in day-to-day activities and interactions with others. As a black male adopted in an upper-middle class white family, I have come to appreciate the significance of social identities in my personal life. A myriad of privileges based on my experiences and social self-have facilitated self- realization and identification.

Male privilege

The element of patriarchy arises as the prevailing force of the aspect of male privilege. It gives males power over children and women and positions of males at the epitome of a social organization (McIntosh 1). The manifestation of male privilege dates back in history. Royal succession, religious and political power, and voting rights, amongst others, date back in history reflecting the positions of males in the society.

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Despite the changes in the modern society establishing gender equality and balance, male dominance remains an 'instilled' element. The privilege as the male member has stimulated the element of responsibility within the society. In this case, I have realized that the societal expectations from me as a man include productivity and true workmanship. I enjoy the automatic privileges associated with being male. Some of these treatments come unawares, for example, walking down the streets without receiving catcalling chants from others. My athletic body that depicts and exquisite physique suffices the respect I receive from my peers and the rest of the society. At times, I feel that nature restores a sense of pride and respect for various issues and aspects in day-to-day life activities as a man. Elderly individuals, whether male or female, treat me with a sense of respect based on my gender status.

Ableist Privilege

Ableism theory links the society with the normality of individuals to easily walk from one place to the other, hear, touch, and consequently fulfil societal expectations of a 'normal' person. Individuals that hold these traits have clinched a political, religious, and other position in the society. Historically, some societies instilled horrific laws meant to 'lock-up' the rights of physically challenged children. I can consider myself as a 'normal' person as I can clearly see, hear, talk, touch, speak, and easily engage in body movements including walking and running. The privilege has encompassed a myriad of personal benefits including the ease of performing day-to-day tasks. It has saved me from associated discrimination against individuals with disabilities.

Disprivileges Resulting from Social Norms

Discomfort, guilt, and shame based on my race and sexual orientation. As a black adopted child brought up….....

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