Overview gender development

Question 1

Define sex.

Answer 1

Physical characteristics from genes that can’t change.

Question 2

Define gender.

Answer 2

Attitude and behaviour in society.

Question 3

What is androgyny?

Answer 3

Displaying similar levels of masculine and feminine traits.

Question 4

What study represents androgyny?

Answer 4

Bem.

Question 5

What happened in this study?

Answer 5

50 male and 50 female judges rated 200 traits on desirability. 20 were chosen and put on a scale. People who had both feminine and masculine traits tended to be psychologically healthier.

Question 6

Which is more subjective, gender or sex?

Answer 6

Gender.

Question 7

What is gender identity?

Answer 7

When someone is aware of their masculinity or femininity.

Question 8

Explain the nature argument for sex and gender.

Answer 8

Gender is biological. Physical differences allow for reproduction and therefore their traits are more instinctive e.g. women are more caring as they’re equipped to carry a baby.

Question 9

What are three things nature can’t explain?

Answer 9

Androgyny, homosexuality and cultural variations.

Question 10

Explain the nurture side for sex and gender.

Answer 10

Family upbringing and society’s expectation. Can help to explain why some sexes don’t adopt the most likely gender. Also supports cross cultural variations.

Question 11

Suggest and explain 2 studies for the nature nurture debate.

Answer 11

Fagot and Diamond and Sigmundson (Dr Money). Fagot- parents acted more favourably to a child when they took part in gender stereotypical activities. Dr Money- boy castrated and raised as a girl.