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Essay #3/Unit 3 - The Gendered Self-Argumentative Essay

Social norms and ways of life places different life expectation on different genders. While many people take much time to try and conform to these community expectations, others can divert from them and take the route that they feel is comfortable and profitable in their lives. An excellent example of a liberal that refused to follow community expectations is Pai, a protagonist in the film “Whale Rider.” In Niki Caro's film "Whale Rider," Pai, a young Maori girl, stands up against Koro's (grandfather) desire that she accept the traditional role of women within Maori culture. Pai's refusal to conform to societal expectations is an inspiring theme that challenges gender roles and cultural norms. I share her perspective as it represents an innovative and progressive approach toward gender equality and cultural identity. This essay will investigate the intersection between Pai's resistance and research on gender roles, self-determination theory, and leadership theories, using examples from the film and at least one approved source as support. I will support and agree with Pai's determination to break free from traditional gender roles and her pursuit of personal dreams. She demonstrated leadership qualities to show why Pai's resistance can be justified and admirable.

First, Pai's resistance stands out partly by upending traditional gender roles in Maori culture, where men and women are expected to perform different duties. Women are expected to conform to traditional roles, while men hold positions of power and authority. Pai challenges these gender norms that she was raised with and is determined to prove her worth despite community dismissal due to gender. Pai demonstrates her physical prowess and bravery by riding a whale - typically reserved for men - which challenges notions that certain activities are exclusive to either gender and promotes gender equality. According to Jill, gender roles are socialized into society through expectations; challenging traditional gender roles may result in increased self-esteem and empowerment for female protagonists like Pai in "Whale Rider." Pai's position towards taking up duties and participating in activities designed for men indicates her resistance to general order community norms. Pai's resistance against traditional gender roles shows her determination to break free of societal expectations and claim her own identity.

Pai's resistance can be understood from another angle, where she relentlessly pursues her dreams and aspirations to lead her tribe despite Koro's attempts at discouragement. Regardless, Pai remains undeterred in her pursuit of becoming the chief. She feels deeply bonded to her Maori heritage and believes she can lead in restoring its traditions and values. Pai's determination to follow her dreams resonates with self-determination theory, emphasizing autonomy, competence and relatedness as key ingredients of psychological well-being (Chafin and Paula). Pai's desire to blaze her trail and contribute meaningfully to her community shows her intrinsic motivation and an inner sense of autonomy. She defies gender-based expectations by working to reach her aspirations and goals, championing the belief that individuals should be free to pursue their passions despite social norms. This strong determination validates Pai’s reason for going against community expectations. Personal goals and determination play a key role in gaining accomplishments in life. In the case of Pai, her personal goal and one of the main ones is to live differently by proving that everything is possible despite strong boundaries erected by social norms. She also has a goal to lead by doing more than she is expected to do.

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