Human Growth and Development

Stages of Relationship Decline (Possible Dissolution): 6.​ Differentiating: Partners begin to emphasize individual differences, seeking more autonomy. This does not always signal a breakup but may require rebalancing. 7.​ Circumscribing: Communication declines, and emotional connection weakens. Certain topics may be avoided. 8.​ Stagnating: The relationship feels unfulfilling, with little growth or communication. Partners may feel emotionally disconnected. 9.​ Avoiding: Partners physically or emotionally distance themselves, avoiding contact due to tension or unresolved issues 10.​ Terminating: The relationship ends, either by mutual decision or one party's choice. Some may find emotional closure, while others experience lingering feelings of loss. Not all relationships go through every stage, but these patterns help explain how relationships grow, change, or decline over time. Gender Socialization Gender socialization is the process where children learn behaviors, attitudes, and expectations associated with masculinity and femininity. This learning happens through family, peers, media, and culture. ●​ Early Childhood: Children observe and imitate gender roles, such as parents' behaviors or playing with gender-stereotyped toys. ●​ Friendships and Group Play: Peers reinforce social norms, sometimes limiting interests or friendships based on gender expectations. ●​ Self-Expression: Over time, children challenge and reshape gender roles through personal experiences and social interactions. According to Gender Schema Theory , children categorize behaviors and expectations based on gender norms in their environment. However, these views evolve over time as children gain experiences and challenge stereotypes.

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