Deconstructing Gender Stereotype in Nigeria: Jacques Derrida's Deconstruction Theory Approach

Abstract

This paper explicates Jacque Derrida's Deconstruction notion of change to examine the place of gender stereotype in Nigeria. Derridean's theory argues that gender is not a natural or innate category but rather a social construct, which is created and maintained through cultural practices, norms, and power dynamics. Nigeria being a patriarchal society, women are culturally
subjugated, subdued and stereotyped; this paper exposes the various aspect of gender stereotype as projected in the Nigerian society. Gender stereotype is a phenomenon that its existence lingers and it's been transmitted from generation to another through family and the society in which girls/women find themselves. This paper argues that the social construction of men being strong and sufficient is just a mere cultural, social and environmental belief and practices. This paper advances the Deconstruction Theory as an approach and as well a theoretical framework to expose and address the contemporary stereotype against women in all spheres of life. This study reflects on the deconstructive theory which highlights the Indian context to further relate to this study in other to stretch the depth of the theory and its applications on critique of binary and gender norms. The paper contributes to existing literature by identifying the antecedents of gender stereotypes and also exploring not the usual feminism/womanism theories as they are
widely used in discussing gender related works, but a shift to Deconstructive theory approach in examining gender issues. This paper adopted the methodology of content analysis, by reviewing related literatures. Conclusively, this paper discusses the intertwined relationship between Deconstruction Theory on gender and also identify the effects of gender stereotype on women and national development and proffers possible solution.