This paper explains that the terms "masculinity" and "femininity" are the most difficult to define because the popular explanation
of these terms generally has more to do with gender stereotypes than any definable quality of social behavior. The author points out that many social scientists and psychologists argue that it is healthier to be "
process-oriented", by choosing behavior based on what is
appropriate to the person's needs and the situation at the time, rather than to be "role-oriented" by choosing behavior appropriate to the role society has given them regardless of the situation. This paper emphasizes, that to break the cycle of gender typing, it is necessary to change the popular conception of gender, beginning with the individual, proceeding through families and affecting institutions such as schools and the workplace.