Gender and Achievement - Boys

Question 1

What does Sewell say is an Internal factor? (Feminisation of education)

Answer 1

Sewell argues schools have become feminised and reward feminine traits and disregard masculine traits. This disadvantages boys as they are not as developed and encouraged as girls

Question 2

What do Epstein and Francis say is an internal factor? (Peer pressure)

Answer 2

Epstein found boys are more likely to be bullied for being “gay” for doing non manual labour work. So boys mess around to avoid being called sissies. Francis argues girls have moved into more male areas and boys respond by being more laddish.

Question 3

What do Mitsos and Brown say is an external factor? (Crisis of masculinity)

Answer 3

Mitsos and Brown found globalisation led to a crisis of masculinity as boys no longer know how to define their masculine identity and results in lower self esteem and performance

Question 4

What do is the New Right view as an external factor? (Male role models)

Answer 4

The new right argue that the increase in divorces and female single parent households has resulted in a lack of a positive male role model at home.