BPCG 172
YOUTH, GENDER AND IDENTITY
IGNOU BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment July 2024 & Jan 2025
Assignment One
Q 1. Define identity. Describe the social psychological perspectives on identity.
Ans. Identity is a broad and deeply personal concept that plays a central role in how individuals perceive themselves and how they relate to the world around them.
At its core, identity refers to the understanding one has of oneself – who they are, what they believe in, what groups they belong to, and how they see their role in society.
It is shaped by a combination of personal experiences, cultural influences, relationships, and social interactions.
Identity isn’t something fixed or static; rather, it is dynamic and constantly evolving, shaped by new experiences and contexts throughout life.
From the moment a person is born, their sense of identity begins to form and continues to grow and shift based on the circumstances they encounter and the people they engage with.
Social psychology, as a field, offers rich insights into the formation and development of identity. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
It studies how people’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual or imagined presence of others.
Within this framework, identity is not seen as merely an internal, individual matter, but as something that is co-constructed through social interaction.
Social psychological perspectives emphasize that identity is both personal and social, influenced by how we see ourselves and how others perceive us.
Several key theories within social psychology help explain the complexities of identity: Social Identity Theory, Self-Categorization Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, and the concept of the Looking Glass Self.
Social Identity Theory, developed by Henri Tajfel and John Turner in the 1970s, is one of the most influential social psychological theories of identity.
According to this theory, a significant part of an individual’s self-concept is derived from their membership in social groups such as family, religion, nationality, profession, or political affiliation.
People categorize themselves and others into groups (in-groups and out-groups), and this categorization helps build a sense of belonging.
Individuals tend to favor their in-groups and sometimes view out-groups in a negative light, which can lead to group bias or even conflict.
This theory shows that our identity is closely tied to the groups we associate with and that group membership influences our behaviors, attitudes, and sense of self-worth.
Closely related to this is the Self-Categorization Theory, which further explores how people define themselves in terms of group memberships.
This theory suggests that individuals categorize themselves at various levels: as unique individuals (personal identity), as members of a group (social identity), and as human beings (a universal identity).
The identity that becomes most salient at any given time depends on the context. For example, a woman may identify as a mother at home, a teacher at work, and a citizen during a national event. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Each of these identities may influence her behavior in different ways depending on the situation. This perspective underlines the fluid and context-dependent nature of identity.
Symbolic Interactionism, a theoretical framework rooted in sociology but closely tied to social psychology, provides another rich understanding of identity.
According to this perspective, identity is formed and maintained through social interactions. The way we see ourselves is heavily influenced by how we think others perceive us.
Language, symbols, and social cues all play a critical role in shaping our identity.
George Herbert Mead, one of the key theorists in this approach, argued that the self emerges from social experiences and is not present at birth.
The process of interacting with others allows individuals to develop a sense of “me” – the social self that reflects the expectations of others.
This highlights the interactive and performative nature of identity, showing that it is not simply found within, but built through relationships and communication.
The concept of the “Looking Glass Self,” introduced by Charles Horton Cooley, further deepens this understanding. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
According to Cooley, our sense of self develops through our perceptions of how others see us.
It is like looking into a mirror – we imagine how we appear to others, imagine how they judge us, and then develop our self-concept based on these imagined judgments.
Whether or not others actually see us the way we think they do, our beliefs about their views shape how we see ourselves.
This process can have both positive and negative effects. Encouragement and praise can enhance self-esteem, while criticism or rejection can diminish it.
In addition to these theories, contemporary social psychology also examines how identity intersects with culture, power, and social structures.
For instance, the concept of intersectionality recognizes that individuals hold multiple identities simultaneously – such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and religion – and that these identities interact in complex ways.
A person’s experience of identity cannot be fully understood without considering how these different aspects of self overlap and influence each other.
Social psychologists today increasingly focus on how societal norms, discrimination, and privilege shape identity formation and expression.
To sum up, identity is a rich, multifaceted concept that lies at the heart of who we are. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
From a social psychological perspective, identity is not just a private, inner experience, but a social construct influenced by group memberships, interactions, cultural norms, and social expectations.
Theories like Social Identity Theory, Self-Categorization Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, and the Looking Glass Self illustrate how our sense of self is formed through both our internal understanding and the social world around us.
Ultimately, identity is not something we are simply born with – it is something we continually create and recreate throughout our lives in response to the people, environments, and cultures that shape us.
Q 2. Discuss educational institution as contexts of identity development.
Ans. Educational institutions are not just spaces where students acquire academic knowledge and skills; they are also powerful environments where identity development takes place.
From early childhood to higher education, schools and colleges play a crucial role in shaping how individuals see themselves, how they relate to others, and how they define their place in society. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
The classroom, the playground, peer groups, teachers, and the broader culture of an institution all contribute to a young person’s developing sense of identity.
This process is complex, ongoing, and influenced by a range of social, cultural, psychological, and institutional factors.
One of the most important ways educational institutions contribute to identity development is by offering structured social environments.
In schools, students encounter people from different backgrounds, with different viewpoints and experiences. Through these interactions, they learn about themselves and others.
They begin to understand who they are in relation to their peers, teachers, and the expectations set by the school system.
For example, a student may begin to identify as a leader after being given responsibility in a school project, or they might develop a strong sense of cultural identity after participating in cultural activities or discussions about history and diversity.
Teachers play a key role in this developmental journey. The way teachers interact with students, the feedback they give, and the values they promote can have a lasting impact on a student’s self-concept.
When teachers create an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment, students feel seen and valued, which contributes to a positive identity.
On the other hand, if students face discrimination, bias, or constant criticism, it can negatively shape their self-esteem and sense of belonging.
Educational institutions, therefore, have a responsibility to foster environments that nurture rather than hinder identity formation.
Peer groups are equally influential. Friendships, group activities, and shared experiences within the school setting help students form social identities.
These social identities may be based on common interests, hobbies, cultural background, or academic performance.
Being accepted by a peer group reinforces a sense of belonging, which is crucial during adolescence, a period often marked by a search for identity.
However, peer pressure and exclusion can also lead to identity confusion or insecurity, especially if a student feels they must conform to group norms that conflict with their authentic self. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
The curriculum and extracurricular activities offered by educational institutions also provide important avenues for identity exploration.
Through subjects like literature, history, and the arts, students are introduced to different worldviews, cultures, and life experiences.
These subjects often challenge students to reflect on their beliefs, values, and assumptions, which can lead to deeper self-understanding.
Participation in sports, drama, music, and student councils allows students to explore different roles and develop confidence in their abilities.
These opportunities not only enhance skills but also contribute to the development of personal identity by allowing students to express themselves and discover what they enjoy or excel at.
In addition, educational institutions are key sites where gender identity, cultural identity, and even political or ideological beliefs are shaped.
For instance, schools that actively promote gender equality, diversity, and inclusion create space for students to explore their identities freely and authentically.
In contrast, schools that enforce rigid gender roles or suppress cultural expression may contribute to identity suppression.
This is especially significant for students from marginalized communities, for whom the school may either be a space of empowerment or a source of alienation.
It becomes crucial, then, for educators to be aware of these dynamics and to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to explore and affirm their identities.
The role of language and communication in educational settings also deserves attention. Language is not just a tool for learning; it is a key component of identity.
Students who speak minority languages or come from different linguistic backgrounds often find that their language identity is either affirmed or denied in the classroom. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
When schools support multilingualism and respect different dialects or forms of expression, they validate students’ cultural identities and enhance their self-worth.
On the other hand, suppressing or ignoring these identities can make students feel inferior or disconnected from their roots.
Technology and digital learning environments, which are now integral parts of modern education, also influence identity development.
Social media, online classrooms, and virtual collaborations expose students to new perspectives and identities.
While this can be enriching, it can also pose challenges, especially if students feel pressured to present curated or idealized versions of themselves online.
Educators need to guide students in navigating digital spaces in ways that support authentic identity formation.
Assignment Two
Q 3. Discuss the promotion of equity and equality.
Ans. Promoting equity and equality is essential for building a fair and just society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background, gender, caste, economic status, or any other characteristic.
While the terms “equity” and “equality” are often used interchangeably, they represent different but interconnected ideas.
Equality means providing everyone with the same resources or opportunities, while equity goes a step further by recognizing that people have different needs and starting points, and thus may require different types of support to achieve similar outcomes.
In simple terms, equality treats everyone the same; equity ensures fairness by treating people according to their specific circumstances.
In a diverse country like India, where deep-rooted social and economic inequalities persist, the promotion of equity and equality is not just a goal, but a necessity.
Various sections of society—such as women, people from marginalized castes, tribal communities, the economically weaker sections, and people with disabilities—have historically faced disadvantages. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
These groups often lack access to quality education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and political representation.
Promoting equity means creating policies and practices that actively remove these barriers and ensure everyone has a real chance to succeed.
Education is one of the most powerful tools for promoting equity and equality. When quality education is made accessible to all, it creates a level playing field.
Government initiatives like the Right to Education Act, reservation policies, and scholarships for underprivileged students are aimed at reducing the gap between privileged and disadvantaged communities.
However, equality in education doesn’t just mean giving the same textbook to every child.
It means acknowledging that some children come from homes without electricity or parents who can help them study, and then designing support systems like free tutoring, mid-day meals, and free transport to school to ensure those children can learn just as effectively.
Workplace equity and gender equality are also crucial areas of focus.
In many places, women and marginalized groups are still underrepresented in leadership positions, underpaid for the same work, or not given the same opportunities for advancement. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Promoting equality here involves enforcing fair recruitment policies, equal pay for equal work, and anti-discrimination laws.
Equity in the workplace means going further—offering mentorship to women in male-dominated fields, providing maternity support, and creating inclusive environments where everyone feels safe and valued.
Healthcare is another important domain where equity must be emphasized. Not everyone has the same access to doctors, medicines, or healthy living conditions.
Promoting equity in healthcare means setting up mobile health clinics in rural areas, subsidizing treatment for the poor, and raising awareness in local languages about health issues.
To truly promote equity and equality, there needs to be a change in mindset as well.
Society must move beyond token gestures and work towards real inclusion, where diversity is seen as a strength rather than a problem.
This requires empathy, awareness, and consistent effort from individuals, communities, governments, and institutions.
Only when we address the unique challenges faced by different groups can we build a society where everyone not only has equal rights, but also an equal chance to live with dignity and hope. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Q 4. Explain work life balance and its challenges.
Ans. Work-life balance refers to the ability of an individual to effectively manage their professional responsibilities alongside their personal life, including time for family, health, leisure, and personal development.
In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, achieving a healthy balance between work and personal life has become increasingly important, yet equally challenging.
The idea is not about splitting time equally between work and home but about having the flexibility to fulfill personal and professional commitments without stress or guilt.
In earlier times, work hours were more structured, and once someone left the office, their time was considered personal. However, with the advancement of technology, the boundaries between work and personal life have blurred.
Emails, calls, and messages can now reach people at any hour, making it harder to disconnect from work. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
While this connectivity has made communication easier, it has also created pressure to be constantly available, often leading to burnout and mental fatigue.
One of the biggest challenges in maintaining work-life balance is the increasing workload and job insecurity.
Many people work overtime or take on multiple responsibilities to meet tight deadlines or secure their position in a competitive environment.
In doing so, they often sacrifice their personal time, hobbies, and even health. Long working hours not only lead to physical exhaustion but also affect relationships, as individuals are left with little or no time for their families or social life.
Another major challenge is the societal expectation of being a “perfect” worker or parent. Many working professionals, especially women, face the pressure of excelling both at work and at home.
For women, balancing a job and household responsibilities can be overwhelming, especially in societies where domestic duties are not equally shared.
This double burden can result in stress, guilt, and a constant feeling of not doing enough on either front. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
The rise of remote work or work-from-home culture, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, has also presented a mixed impact. On one hand, it has allowed people to save commuting time and be closer to their families.
On the other hand, it has made it difficult to draw a line between professional and personal life, with many people ending up working longer hours at home than they did in the office.
To tackle these challenges, both individuals and organizations have roles to play. Employees must learn to prioritize tasks, set boundaries, and take regular breaks.
Practicing time management, avoiding overcommitment, and ensuring self-care are vital steps toward better balance.
Employers, on their part, should promote a healthy work culture by offering flexible working hours, mental health support, and realistic workload expectations.
Q 5. Describe the factors determining aggression and violence in youth.
Ans. Aggression and violence among youth have become pressing concerns in today’s society. These behaviors can take many forms—verbal abuse, physical fights, bullying, vandalism, or even involvement in serious crimes.
Understanding the factors that influence such behavior is essential for parents, educators, and policymakers who aim to prevent it and promote healthier development. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Aggression in youth is not caused by a single factor; rather, it emerges from a complex mix of biological, psychological, social, and environmental influences.
One major factor is family environment. A child’s early home life plays a crucial role in shaping their behavior.
Youth who grow up in families marked by domestic violence, harsh discipline, neglect, or lack of emotional support are more likely to show aggressive tendencies.
Children learn by observing their parents and caregivers; if they witness aggressive behavior as a way to solve problems, they may adopt similar approaches.
On the other hand, a loving, respectful, and communicative family environment helps in teaching emotional control and empathy.
Peer influence is another powerful factor, especially during adolescence. Young people often seek acceptance and approval from their peer groups.
If a peer group encourages aggressive or violent behavior—through bullying, group fights, or delinquent acts—an individual may feel pressured to participate in order to belong. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
This is especially common among youth who lack confidence or do not receive enough attention at home. Social rejection or being a victim of bullying can also lead to retaliation in the form of aggression.
Media and technology have also emerged as influential factors. Exposure to violent content in movies, video games, and social media can desensitize youth to real-life violence.
While not every child who plays violent video games becomes aggressive, consistent exposure without proper guidance can affect how they view conflict resolution.
Some youth may come to believe that aggression is an acceptable or effective way to handle disagreements.
Biological and psychological factors also contribute. Certain personality traits, such as impulsiveness, low tolerance for frustration, or lack of empathy, are linked to aggressive behavior. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Some youth may have underlying mental health issues such as conduct disorder, ADHD, or depression, which, if left untreated, can manifest as aggression.
Hormonal changes during adolescence can also lead to mood swings and irritability, increasing the likelihood of conflicts.
School environment plays a significant role too. Schools with poor discipline, lack of supervision, and ineffective conflict resolution methods may contribute to a rise in aggressive incidents.
When students feel unsafe, unsupported, or unfairly treated, they may act out through violence or defiance.
Socioeconomic conditions such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of educational opportunities can also increase frustration and hopelessness in youth, leading to violent behavior as an expression of anger or a means of survival.
Assignment Three
Q 6. Gender stereotyping and social change
Ans. Gender stereotyping refers to the deeply rooted and generalized beliefs about the roles, behaviors, and characteristics that society expects from men and women.
These stereotypes often dictate what is considered “appropriate” for each gender—for example, the idea that men should be strong, assertive, and career-focused, while women should be nurturing, emotional, and primarily responsible for household duties.
These fixed ideas limit individual potential, reinforce inequality, and create barriers for people to freely express who they truly are.
Over time, these stereotypes have been challenged through social movements, education, and changing cultural values.
Women’s increasing participation in education, politics, science, and business has reshaped the traditional image of a woman’s role in society.
Similarly, men are gradually being encouraged to take on caregiving roles and express emotions without judgment.
Despite this progress, gender stereotypes still persist in media, advertising, schools, and even within families, often in subtle ways that continue to shape attitudes from a young age. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Social change comes when people, communities, and institutions actively work to break these patterns.
Encouraging critical thinking, promoting gender equality in education and the workplace, and showcasing diverse role models are important steps.
Change also involves questioning long-standing traditions and having open conversations about fairness and respect.
When society begins to value individuals for who they are, rather than what gender they belong to, it opens the door to a more just, compassionate, and equal world.
True social progress lies in creating space for everyone to grow beyond the limits of outdated expectations.
Q 7. Consumerism, youth and globalization
Ans. In today’s fast-changing world, the connection between consumerism, youth, and globalization has become increasingly significant.
Globalization has brought the world closer, allowing the rapid flow of goods, ideas, media, and lifestyles across borders.
As a result, young people are more exposed than ever to global trends, international brands, and a culture that often promotes materialism.
Consumerism, in this context, refers to the growing desire to buy and own the latest products—whether it’s gadgets, fashion, or lifestyle goods—as a way of expressing identity and status. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Youth, being the most dynamic and impressionable segment of society, are especially influenced by this trend.
Social media, advertising, and peer pressure often push them to equate self-worth with what they own rather than who they are.
Wearing branded clothes, using the latest phones, or following influencer trends becomes a way of fitting in or gaining approval.
This constant chase can lead to unrealistic expectations, dissatisfaction, and even financial stress, as many try to keep up with consumer-driven ideals.
However, globalization also has a positive side. It gives youth access to new ideas, cultures, and movements—such as sustainability, ethical consumption, and minimalism—that challenge blind consumerism. Many young people today are also using their global awareness to make informed choices, support local artisans, or advocate for responsible consumer behavior.
Q 8. Family model of independence
Ans. The family model of independence refers to a pattern of family relationships in which individuals, especially children and adolescents, are encouraged to develop personal autonomy and self-reliance while still maintaining emotional closeness and support within the family unit.
This model is commonly seen in many Western societies, where the cultural emphasis is placed on individual achievement, personal choice, and freedom, but without completely detaching from familial bonds.
In this model, parents nurture their children’s ability to think independently, make decisions, and take responsibility for their actions.
For example, teenagers may be allowed to choose their academic paths, pursue personal interests, or even work part-time, all under the guidance and encouragement of their family. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
The goal is to prepare them to function as self-sufficient adults who are capable of standing on their own feet, both economically and emotionally.
However, this independence does not mean emotional detachment. The family continues to provide a secure emotional base, offering support, advice, and care when needed.
It recognizes that true independence also includes knowing when to seek help and value close relationships.
This model contrasts with the interdependence model often seen in collectivist cultures, where family members are expected to prioritize group harmony and remain deeply connected, often at the cost of individual choices.
The family model of independence aims to strike a healthy balance—promoting individuality while nurturing supportive and lasting family ties.
It prepares young people not just to live apart, but to live wisely and confidently in the wider world.
Q 9. Multiplicity of identity
Ans. Multiplicity of identity refers to the idea that a person does not have just one fixed identity, but rather holds multiple identities that coexist and interact in various ways. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
Each individual is shaped by a combination of different factors such as gender, religion, culture, language, caste, nationality, profession, and personal experiences.
These aspects do not function in isolation—they come together to form a complex and dynamic sense of self that can shift depending on context, time, and social setting.
For example, a young woman may identify as a daughter at home, a student at college, a friend in her social group, and a member of a religious or cultural community—all at the same time.
Her identity may also evolve as she grows older, moves to different places, or gains new experiences.
The way she expresses herself might change depending on whether she’s speaking with her family, attending a festival, or participating in an academic discussion.
This concept challenges the idea of labeling individuals with one singular identity, which can often lead to stereotypes or social divisions.
Recognizing multiplicity allows for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of people’s experiences.
It also encourages empathy, as we begin to see others not through a single lens, but as layered and diverse beings.
In a globalized and interconnected world, the multiplicity of identity is more relevant than ever. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
It reflects the fluid, hybrid nature of modern life and highlights the importance of respecting the diverse identities people carry within themselves.
Q 10. Social mechanisms of per group
Ans. Peer groups play a significant role in the social development of individuals, especially during adolescence and young adulthood.
These are groups of people who are similar in age, status, interests, or background, and they often become a powerful influence on behavior, attitudes, and values.
The social mechanisms of peer groups refer to the ways in which these groups shape an individual’s identity, social skills, and decision-making through interaction, acceptance, and shared norms.
One of the key mechanisms is social learning. Individuals observe and imitate the behavior, language, and attitudes of their peers.
For instance, a teenager may adopt certain dressing styles, hobbies, or even opinions based on what is accepted or admired within their group.
This imitation is not forced—it comes from a desire to belong and be accepted.
Another mechanism is peer pressure, which can be both positive and negative. On the positive side, peer groups can motivate members to perform better in academics, sports, or develop healthy habits.
On the negative side, they may pressure someone into risky behavior like substance use, cheating, or bullying, simply to maintain group membership.
Social comparison is another important mechanism. Individuals often evaluate themselves in relation to their peers, which can influence their self-esteem and confidence. BPCG 172 Free Solved Assignment 2024
This comparison can inspire growth or create feelings of inadequacy, depending on the context.
IGNOU BPCG171 Free Solved Assignment 2024