| Popis: |
The reproduction of the gender system and gender hierarchies is a well-researched area in society. However, there is a lack of research on gender relations in Swedish churches, more specifically in the Pentecostal movement. The aim of this essay is to use qualitative content analysis to examine four Christian podcasts known in the Swedish Pentecostal movement, to discover if they reproduce and/or challenge gender roles, hierarchies, and heteronormative sexuality. The essay identified three main categories: gendered characteristics, non-normative sexuality, and family life. The findings suggest that gender is reproduced in the four podcasts on different levels, both implicitly and explicitly, for example by assigning gender-specific characteristics to men and women and explaining that women are the weaker sex that men must take care of. The pastors/preachers in the podcasts also speak in a heteronormative way, excluding other sexualities or declaring other sexualities as sinful. Finally, the podcasts express the different roles of men and women in the home and family, with women being the caregivers and men being the authoritative influences needed to lead a family. Even though the national board of the Pentecostal movement in Sweden is explicitly concerned with gender issues, the essay shows that more needs to be done to influence preachers and pastors in the movement. The churches are active in many societies and reach many children in the communities with different activities. Therefore, it is important for teachers and other adults to be aware of the attitudes and perspectives on gender and sexuality that young people encounter in their everyday lives, and the essay can provide insight into the reproduction of norms in society. The findings of the essay can help teachers to create a more inclusive and stereotype-free classroom. |
