In many societies, there is a persistent cultural preference for male children over female children, driven by deep-rooted traditions, economic factors, and societal norms. This preference often manifests in the form of pressure from husbands and in-laws on women to have baby boys rather than girls.
One primary reason for this bias is the perceived economic value of male children. In many cultures, sons are seen as future breadwinners who will support their parents in old age, while daughters are often viewed as financial burdens due to dowry practices and the belief that they will eventually marry and leave the family home. This economic perspective fuels the desire for male offspring.
Additionally, there are cultural and social prestige factors at play. In some communities, having a son is associated with carrying on the family name and lineage. Sons are often seen as inheritors of family property and traditions, which bolsters their importance in the eyes of older generations.
Furthermore, gender roles and patriarchy contribute significantly to this preference. Societal norms that prioritize male authority and undervalue female contributions perpetuate the notion that boys are inherently more valuable. This leads to undue pressure on women from their husbands and in-laws to produce male heirs, often disregarding the emotional and physical toll on the mother.
Ultimately, challenging these ingrained biases requires societal change, greater gender equality, and the dismantling of harmful traditions that prioritize one gender over another.
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Societal norms that prioritize male authority and undervalue female contributions perpetuate the notion that boys are inherently more valuable
