👉 The "gender weapon" refers to the use of gender stereotypes, norms, and biases as tools to manipulate, control, or oppress individuals based on their gender. This concept highlights how societal expectations and prejudices related to masculinity and femininity can be weaponized to limit opportunities, reinforce power imbalances, and perpetuate discrimination. For instance, the expectation that men should be strong and unemotional can be used to justify their exclusion from certain professional fields or to invalidate their emotional experiences, while stereotypes about women being nurturing and dependent can be used to justify their subordination in the workplace or in domestic settings. Recognizing and challenging these gender-based weapons is crucial for fostering equality and inclusivity.
