Question

Soham, a dedicated stay-at-home father, is often ridiculed by his family and friends who believe caregiving responsibilities fall on the woman as the wife. Despite his commitment and capabilities in managing household, Soham constantly faces prejudice due to these biases against men as house husbands and stay-at-home-fathers while the wife goes to work. This attitude of family and friends saddens him.

1. Explain any two causes for the prejudice Soham is facing.    (2)
2. Suggest any two strategies for Soham to overcome this prejudice.    (2)

Answer 1

1. Causes for the prejudice faced by Soham:
   1. People observe others and follow cultural norms set by society through social learning and so they are unable to accept Soham’s decision to be away from the norm.
   2. Individuals in society who think that people like Soham do not fit into their own way of thinking, would form their own group. They would prefer to be a part of their own group as Us and consider Soham or people like Soham to be their group.
   3. Society tends to stereotype people like Soham, believing that men should not be stay-at-home fathers as it is the role of the woman as a mother.
2. Strategies for Soham to overcome this prejudice:
   1. Soham should try not to develop any negative feelings towards his family and friends who ridicule him.
   2. He should interact directly with his family and friends to develop an understanding and eventually, a better relationship.
   3. He should educate himself on the existence of gender stereotypes and cultural norms that promote such an attitude among people.