Whenever a Math Teacher Writes Story Problems, Any Character with an Occupation

question 115

Multiple Choice

Whenever a math teacher writes story problems, any character with an occupation listed is male, like Bob the janitor or James the lawyer, but when women are used, they have no occupation. What is this an example of?

• A) the way schools socialize children into gender roles
• B) the way men are associated with blue collar work
• C) the role peers play in our gender socialization
• D) the way boys are given credit for intellectual ability, while girls are given credit for hard work
• E) the fact that more women than men are now graduating from college

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Definitions:

Yerkes-Dodson Law

A psychological principle stating that there is an optimal level of arousal for performance on tasks—too little arousal can lead to underperformance, whereas too much can lead to errors.

Optimal Level

Refers to the most favorable or ideal state of something for its intended purpose or function.

Stimulation

The action of arousing interest, excitement, or activity in the mind or body.

Sensation-Seeker

A person with a personality trait defined by the search for experiences and feelings that are varied, novel, complex, and intense.