Kohlbergs gender constancy theory

Question 1

What is the theory

Answer 1

Stage theory, ‘active structuring of out won experience, not passive products of social training.’
Children need to understand their gender identity before imitating same-sex models and learning their own behaviour.

Question 2

What is stage 1 called and when

Answer 2

gender identity- 2yrs

Question 3

What is stage 2 called and when

Answer 3

Gender stability- 4yrs

Question 4

What is stage 3 called and when

Answer 4

Gender constancy- 6yrs

Question 5

What is in stage 1

Answer 5

-Begin to understand they are male or female
-Can apply labels
-Doesn’t understand that sex stays the same over time and situations.
-understanding is based on external experience.

Question 6

What is in stage 2

Answer 6

-confused by external changes in male/ female appearance e.g hair length
-understands that own gender stays the same over time and situation
-Doesn’t understand that others gender stays the same over time and situation.

Question 7

what is in stage 3

Answer 7

• complete understanding of gender
• recognises gender is constant
• no longer confused by external appearance
  -understands biological difference in behaviour.

Question 8

Munroe research support

Answer 8

Cross-cultural research suggests that stages are universal so cause may be innate or we would see cultural differences

Question 9

McConaghy research support

Answer 9

Children shown a stick drawing of a doll with male genitals and a dress, children under 5 said it was a girl

Question 10

Methodological flaw

Answer 10

Relies on children’s language ability. Early interviews with children who may not be able to express their understanding