Which sociological theory supports maintaining the gender binary and well-defined gender roles?

Conflict theory focuses on the power dynamics and struggles between different social groups, highlighting issues of inequality and competition. Rather than supporting the gender binary, this theory critiques established roles, arguing that they perpetuate oppression and inequality, particularly for marginalized groups.

Feminism seeks to challenge and dismantle the traditional gender roles and binaries that limit individuals based on their gender. Rather than supporting well-defined gender roles, feminism advocates for equality and the recognition of diverse gender identities and experiences, thus opposing the maintenance of the gender binary.

Symbolic interactionism emphasizes the subjective meanings that individuals attach to social symbols, including gender. While it examines how gender roles are constructed and maintained through social interactions, it does not inherently support the gender binary; instead, it opens the possibility for fluid and varied interpretations of gender.