Gender

Question 1

Distinguish between gender and sex

Answer 1

Gender - characteristics that a society or culture delineates as masculine or feminine

Sex - biological differences in chromosomes, hormones, and internal and external sex organs

Question 2

In what ways does puberty affect gender formation? (2)

Answer 2

• intensifies sexual aspects of gender attitudes and behaviour
• renegotiation of masculinity and femininity

Question 3

What was Freud’s view on gender?

Answer 3

human behaviour is directly related to reproductive processes

Question 4

What is the view of evolutionary psychologists on gender? (2)

Answer 4

males evolved dispositions that favour violence, competition and risk-taking

females evolved preferences for successful ambitious men who could provide resources

Question 5

Name 4 differences in brain structures between males and females? (4)

Answer 5

• Hypothalamic region involved in sexual behaviour is larger in males
• Parietal lobe area involved in visuospatial skills is larger in males
• Corpus callosum cross-sectional area is larger in females
• Cerebral hemispheres are more interconnected in females

Question 6

Distinguish between the Social Role Theory and the Social Learning Theory of social differences (2)

Answer 6

Social role - Eagly - gender differences result from contrasting roles of males and females

Social learning - Bandura - gender development is influenced by imitation of others’ gender behaviour and by rewards and punishments for gender appropriate/inappropriate behaviour

Question 7

Explain the Cognitive Developmental Theory of Gender (2)

Answer 7

children’s gender typing occurs after they have developed a concept of gender

once children think of themselves as male or female, they organize their world on the basis of gender and stay consistent to it

Question 8

Explain Martin and Ruble’s Gender Development Theory (3)

Answer 8

Ages 3-5 - learn about defined, socialized aspects of gender

Ages 5-7 - identity is consolidated and becomes rigid

Ages 7+ - fluidity returns and socially defined gender roles relax

Question 9

Name the 4 stages of Newman’s Gender Development Theory

Answer 9

1. Understanding concept of gender
2. Learning gender roles and stereotypes
3. Identifying with parents
4. Forming gender preferences

Question 10

Explain the Gender Schema Theory

Answer 10

gender-typing emerges as individuals gradually develop under schemas of what is gender appropriate/inappropriate in their culture

Question 11

Explain Butler’s Queer Theory of Gender

Answer 11

Gender is performative as it creates social norms that appear natural but are potentially coercive

Question 12

Distinguish between rapport talk and report talk (2)

Answer 12

Rapport talk - language of conversation and a way of establishing connections and negotiating relationships - females engage in it more

Report talk - talk that gives info - males engage in it more