Parenting and Gender Socialization in Children: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Gender socialization begins early in childhood, with parents playing a crucial role in shaping children's gender-related beliefs and behaviors. This review examines how parenting styles, parental gender attitudes, and parental reinforcement practices contribute to the development of sexist beliefs and gender stereotypes in children. Following the PRISMA framework, a systematic search of Scopus, PubMed, and APA PsycNet databases was conducted for peer-reviewed articles published between 2013 and 2023. Studies were included if they empirically examined parental influences on children's gender socialization and were published in English. A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria and were thematically analyzed. Findings revealed that parenting styles significantly shape gender socialization, with strict and authoritarian parenting being associated with stronger adherence to traditional gender roles, while indulgent and egalitarian parenting approaches were linked to more gender-equitable attitudes in children. Regarding parental gender attitudes, parents who held traditional gender beliefs were more likely to reinforce gendered expectations in their children, leading to the internalization of sexist beliefs. In contrast, parents with egalitarian attitudes fostered more flexible gender norms and reduced gender bias in their children. Additionally, parental reinforcement practices played a crucial role, as parents who actively encouraged gender-conforming behaviors reinforced stereotypical gender roles, whereas those who provided diverse play opportunities and non-stereotypical role models supported a broader spectrum of gender expression. Despite the global relevance of gender socialization, most included studies were conducted in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) nations, underscoring the need for further research in non-WEIRD contexts. The review highlighted the critical role of parenting in shaping children's gender ideologies and calls for interventions that promote gender-equitable attitudes. Future research should explore diverse socio-cultural perspectives, including socioeconomic status, parental education, and dual-income households, to develop a more nuanced understanding of how parenting influences gender socialization among children.