This theory originates from the work of American psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg.
The theory does not reflect current social norms surrounding gender far.
For example, the theory does not account for individuals who identify astransgender, nonbinary, or gender fluid.
Verywell / Jiaqi Zhou
This theory was proposed by Kohlberg and had its roots in thecognitive development theory of French psychologist Jean Piaget.
In addition, children should always be taught that self-acceptance is most important.
Regardless, children should never beforced to conformto a gender role that makes them uncomfortable.
Once they develop this understanding, they begin to act as members of their sex.
And, these stages closely parallel the theory of Piaget regarding children’s cognitive development.
They surveyed 55 two through five-year-olds and asked 14 questions and counter questions.
This provides support for Kohlberg’s theory.
As you grow older, internal self-regulation would grow more important.
Note again that this is an older theory based on a time when gender roles were less fluid.
At the same time, other theorists agree that cognition is important to some degree.
In other words, as a little boy or girl, the world can be confusing.
So, it’s easier to start categorizing things based on gender.
They argue that stereotypes are kind of like road maps on how to handle interactions with new people.
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Kohlberg L. A cognitive-developmental analysis of childrens sex-role concepts and attitudes, in E. Maccoby (ed.
)The development of sex differences, London, Tavistock; 1966.
Martin CL, Halverson CF.A schematic processing model of sex typing and stereotyping in children.Child Dev.
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Slaby RG, Frey KS.Development of gender constancy and selective attention to same-sex models.Child Dev.
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