Gender Flashcards
What is sex
Sex is biologically determined by genetics (XX or XY chromosomes)
What do chromosomes do
Chromosomes influence hormonal and anatomical differences that distinguish between male and female
What is gender
Gender is described as masculine and feminine which is reflected by attitudes, behaviours and roles that are associated with being male and female
What is gender dysphoria
Most people identify with there sex and there gender assigned at birth. However some people’s biological sex doesn’t reflect the way they feel inside or doesn’t align with their gender identity
What are sex role stereotypes
They are social expectations. They are shared by cultures or social groups and consist of expectations regarding how males and females should behave. These stereotypes are reinforced by by members in the social group
Have can sex role stereotypes not be representative
There is no biological reason for these roles to be followed. Many sex role stereotypes are incorrect assumptions and can lead to sexism and damaging attitudes for example women are too emotional to be leaders
Research isn’t sex role stereotypes in media
Furnham and Farragher- study of adverts. found men were more likely to be shown in autonomous roles in professional contexts whereas women were more likely to been seen occupying familiar roles in domestic settings.
What is androgyny
Androgyny is appearing neither female or male, it’s a mix of both. A balance of both genders behaviours and attitudes.
Study of androgyny
Bem- high androgyny is associated with psychological well-being. People who show both gendered characteristics are better adapted to a range of situations.
How is androgyny measured
Bem sex role inventory (BSRI)- masculine includes dominance, strength, competitive
Feminine includes gentle, affectionate and sympathetic
Neutral- sincere, friendly, unpredictable
20 points for fem 20 points for masc 20 points for neutral. 7 point rating scale (1=never 7=always)
Strength of gender identity
It is measured quantitatively- it is numerical so may be more representative for gender identity better. CP- however there is no greater detail. A mix of quantitative and qualitative data may be more useful to give richer insight into gender identity
Found to be valid and reliable- first study done on 50 men and 50 females. Piloted with 1000 students showed the BSRI reflected their gender identity. Follow up study with smaller sample of the same students suggested a high test retest reliability. Have validity and reliability
Limitations of gender identity
People may lack insight into their gender identity- gender is a construct that this subjective. BSRI is subjective as ratings may differ from person to person. Therefore is not scientifically valid
Era dependent- stereotypes of masculinity and femininity have changed over the ages. Also devised by only the USA. May lack temporal validity as it is culturally and era dependent.
What are chromosomes
They are made of DNA. Humans have 23 pairs of biological sex hormones.
Gender development governed by hormones
Prenatally hormones act upon brain development and cause development of the reproductive organs. Hormones are triggered by puberty. Men and women product the same hormones but at different levels
Types of hormones that impact gender
Testosterone, oestrogen, oxytocin
Role of testosterone
Controls development of male sex organs before birth. High levels of testosterone are linked to aggression.
Role of oestrogen
Controls female sexual characteristics including menstruation. During the menstrual cycle women have heightened emotions
Roles of oxytocin
Women normally have more oxytocin than men. It stimulates lactation, reduces stress, facilitates bonding
