Gender

Question 1

Define sex

Answer 1

The biological differences between men and women including, hormones, chromosomes and anatomy

Question 2

Define gender

Answer 2

The psychological and cultural differences between men and women including attitudes, behaviour and social roles

Question 3

Define sex-role stereotype

Answer 3

A set of beliefs and preconceived ideas about what is expected or appropriate for males and females in a given society

Question 4

Define gender dysphoria

Answer 4

When someone’s biologically prescribed sex does not reflect how they feel on the inside and the gender they identify themselves as being. They may get reassignment surgery

Question 5

Outline a case study that investigates gender identify flexibility

Answer 5

• Julianne Imperato-McGinley et al. (1974) studied a unique family in the Dominican Republic
• Four children identified as girls at birth but ‘changed’ into males at puberty
• The children had a rare genetic disorder which meant their male genitalia were not external at birth but concealed inside
• They were typical XY males but a necessary chemical step was missed during prenatal development which would usually externalise male genitalia
• As a result, they were raised as girls and identified as such until puberty
• Hormonal changes at puberty revealed their true biological sex
• The boys abandoned their female gender identity with few problems of adjustment
• This suggests that gender identity may be flexible rather than fixed.

Question 6

Difference between sex and gender

Answer 6

• Sex is a person’s biological status determined by genetics and hormones
• Gender is partially determined by environment and nurturing
• Gender is a social construct rather than a fact
• Gender is not fixed and can fluctuate depending on social context and norms
• A person can become more masculine or feminine based on their surroundings.

Question 7

Define androgyny?

Answer 7

Refers to a personality type that is characterized by a balance of masculine and feminine traits, attitudes, or behaviours.

Question 8

What is the Bem Sex Role Inventory?

Answer 8

A scale developed by Sandra Bem in 1974 to measure androgyny. It includes a rating of 60 traits (20 masculine, 20 feminine, and 20 neutral) to produce scores across two dimensions: masculinity-femininity and androgynous-undifferentiated.

Question 9

How does the Bem Sex Role Inventory work?

Answer 9

Respondents are required to rate themselves on a seven-point rating scale for each of the 60 items. The scores are then classified according to two dimensions: masculinity-femininity and androgynous-undifferentiated.

Question 10

What is the purpose of measuring androgyny?

Answer 10

Measuring androgyny helps us understand individuals who exhibit a balance of masculine and feminine traits, attitudes, or behaviours. It can also help identify psychological well-being and the ability to adapt to different situations and contexts.

Question 11

Can both men and women be androgynous?

Answer 11

Yes