The Difference: Growing Up Female in America

In a study of ``machocracy'' in America, Washington Post columnist Mann examines how such diverse sources as the Saturday morning TV cartoon shows, textbooks and Christianity present messages that cripple the development of girls and offer a false sense of empowerment to boys. Discussing the experiences of her daughter, Katherine, and analyzing research charting the interaction of children and teachers, Mann argues that girls are taught to remain passive while boys dominate the classroom. Further damage is caused by media that not only fail to celebrate a girl's transition into adulthood but also glamorize violence toward women and emphasize the importance of their body measurements over their accomplishments. Mann finds fault as well with organized religion for sanctifying patriarchal society. Her solutions to these inequities include encouraging girls' career interests at an early age and offering children role models through parents who cooperate in a ``domestic partnership.'' (Aug.)