Gender socialization is the process through which individuals learn the norms, behaviors, roles, and expectations associated with their assigned or perceived gender within a society. It begins from early childhood and continues throughout an individual’s life, shaping the way people think, feel, and behave according to cultural definitions of masculinity and femininity. This socialization is deeply embedded in social, cultural, and institutional practices and influences personal identity, interpersonal relationships, and societal roles. The process is not merely about acquiring knowledge but also about internalizing attitudes, beliefs, and emotional responses aligned with one’s gender. Understanding gender socialization requires exploring the roles of primary socializing agents, namely family, peers, and schools, which collectively create a framework of acceptable behaviors and reinforce gender-specific norms. The family is typically the first and most influential agent of gender socialization. From birth, parents and caregivers often assign roles, expectations, and behaviors based on the child’s sex. For instance, girls may be encouraged to play with dolls, show nurturing behavior, and express emotions openly, while boys may be guided toward rough-and-tumble play, independence, and emotional restraint. Parents transmit these norms not only through direct instructions but also through modeling behavior. Children observe and imitate how adults perform gender roles in everyday life, such as mothers handling household chores or fathers engaging in paid work outside the home. Beyond observation, families often enforce gender roles through reinforcement, using praise, rewards, or correction to promote behaviors that align with societal expectations and discourage behaviors that do not conform. Siblings can also contribute by providing opportunities for role-playing and reinforcing gendered interactions. Additionally, family expectations about education, career, and social behavior shape children’s understanding of what is socially acceptable for their gender, thereby influencing aspirations and self-concept. Peers represent another critical influence on gender socialization, particularly as children grow older and spend increasing amounts of time outside the home. Peer groups provide a context in which children compare themselves to others and negotiate their understanding of gender norms. Boys and girls often face pressures to conform to group expectations regarding clothing, interests, play activities, and emotional expression. Peer acceptance and friendship dynamics frequently reinforce gender-typical behavior, as deviation can lead to teasing, exclusion, or ridicule. For example, boys who show sensitivity or engage