Loretta Jacob is a twenty-five-year-old African immigrant in the United States. She is married to Kunte, a computer engineer and together they have two children ages two and four. Loretta is also enrolled in the local community college and wants to be a nurse. Increasingly, combining the care of the children, spousal responsibilities and schoolwork are proving to be difficult for Mrs. Jacobs. Her husband firmly believes in the traditional gender role and constantly reminds her that childcare in their indigenous culture is the responsibility of the mother. When Loretta reminded the husband that living in America robs them of the help of relatives that living in the homeland provides, he simply replied “I don’t care”. Mr. Jacob maintains that his wife has been corrupted by the influence of television in the United States and has refused to be “a real wife and mother”. Mrs. Jacob’s schoolwork is suffering and so she spoke with a pastor about divorce and he referred her to you, the social worker.(From Ette, E.U (2011) Nigerians in the United States: Race, Identity and Acculturation. Landham, MD. Rowman & Littlefield.
Post length: 400-600 words
Respond to at least 6 of the 8 questions below:
- According to Maslow’s theory on hierarchy of needs, what are two of Loretta’s most pressing needs?
- Theories are designed to help us explain human behavior. Discuss two of the theories discussed in this week’s readings/videos and describe how those theories can be used to explain the behavior of Loretta Jacobs.
- Identify stereotypes and characteristics traditionally associated with the respective gender roles and discuss the effects of these stereotypes on people’s right to individuality – the right to be themselves without uncomfortable pretense.
- How might Loretta’s physical functioning, health status, and physical appearance influence her life and other’s perception of her?
- What things might be done to increase equality between men and women? Develop a plan of action utilizing your knowledge of relevant cross-cultural perspectives and theories.
- Discuss the following three questions: Should women ask men for dates? Is there still a double standard concerning premarital sex? Should mothers work outside the home or try to stay home with their young children?
- Consider the three theories of gender discussed in the video ‘Theories of Gender’, which theory of gender do you believe best explains gender. Explain the theory and discuss why?
- What family and community supports could you explore with Loretta? Why?
In addressing Loretta Jacob’s situation, let’s explore some key aspects based on the questions provided:
### Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Loretta’s most pressing needs can be identified as follows:
1. **Safety Needs**: Loretta’s safety needs are threatened by her husband’s rigid expectations and lack of support, both emotionally and practically, in managing childcare responsibilities. She feels vulnerable and unsupported in her role as a mother and student.
2. **Esteem Needs**: Loretta’s need for esteem is undermined by her husband’s insistence on traditional gender roles and his criticism of her pursuit of education and independence. She desires recognition for her efforts and achievements, both as a student and a mother.
### Theories Explaining Loretta’s Behavior
**Social Learning Theory**: This theory posits that individuals learn behaviors through observation and modeling. Loretta’s husband’s adherence to traditional gender roles and his dismissive attitude toward her aspirations can be explained by social learning theory. He may have internalized these beliefs from his upbringing or cultural background, reinforced by societal norms.
**Feminist Theory**: This theory highlights how gender roles and societal expectations influence individuals’ lives. Loretta’s struggle against traditional gender roles and her pursuit of education despite cultural and spousal pressure can be understood through feminist theory. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and challenging gender-based inequalities and advocating for women’s rights to autonomy and self-determination.
### Stereotypes and Gender Roles
Traditional gender roles often stereotype women as primary caregivers and men as providers. These stereotypes can restrict individuals like Loretta from pursuing personal goals and fulfilling their potential. They impose rigid expectations that limit individuality and autonomy, denying people the right to define their roles based on personal aspirations rather than societal norms.
### Increasing Equality Between Men and Women
To promote gender equality in Loretta’s situation, a plan of action could involve:
– **Education and Awareness**: Educating both Loretta and her husband about gender equality principles and the benefits of shared responsibilities in childcare and household duties.
– **Support Systems**: Establishing support networks within the community that provide resources for women balancing education, career, and family responsibilities.
– **Advocacy for Policy Change**: Advocating for policies that promote equal opportunities for women in education, employment, and decision-making roles.
### Family and Community Supports for Loretta
Exploring family and community supports for Loretta could include:
– **Parenting Support Groups**: Connecting Loretta with parenting support groups that provide emotional support and practical advice on managing childcare responsibilities.
– **Cultural Sensitivity Training**: Providing cultural sensitivity training for Loretta’s husband and community members to foster understanding and acceptance of diverse family dynamics.
– **Legal and Social Services**: Exploring legal and social services that can provide Loretta with information about her rights and options in her marriage and education pursuits.
In conclusion, addressing Loretta Jacob’s challenges involves understanding her needs through theories like Maslow’s hierarchy and social learning theory, challenging stereotypes that constrain her autonomy, and advocating for gender equality through education and community support. This approach aims to empower Loretta to pursue her educational and personal goals while navigating cultural and familial expectations.
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