This is My Playground

Abstract

This paper examines the ways in which gender affects play, leisure, and friend making. It explores the synthesis of gender identity and development theory and how these theories come into play at camp. An in depth look is given at previous literature regarding gender and play. Furthermore, the paper examines the forces of socialization, and how they affect gender and play at camp. The author argues that there are four main sources of gender socialization that are apparent at camp: self-socialization, parents, technology, and peers. Next, the role of hegemonic masculinity, or the social construct that enforces gender norms and values masculinity over femininity, is evaluated. The author maintains that hegemonic masculinity leads to patrolling of gender norms, particularly when a gender transgression occurs. Finally, the author reviews previous suggestions on ways camps can support gender development, and evaluate the extent to which Camp EH followed these suggestions.