What is a consequence of marked language on societal perceptions?

Marked language is a form of communication that emphasizes the differences between genders by using language that signifies one gender as the standard while the other is marked or differentiated. This type of language reinforces societal perceptions and stereotypes about gender roles, as it often brings attention to the differences between men and women, implying that the non-standard or marked terms are less legitimate.

For instance, using terms like "female doctor" instead of simply "doctor" suggests that being a doctor is primarily a male identity, while the female version needs to be identified separately. This kind of linguistic differentiation helps to maintain traditional gender roles and expectations, leading to a reinforcement of the idea that men occupy the norm in many professional contexts. Instead of promoting equality, marked language often highlights and perpetuates existing inequalities and stereotypes about what men and women can or should do in various spheres of life. It shapes societal perceptions by framing certain identities as subordinate or differentiated, thereby influencing how people are viewed and treated based on their gender.