Social Construction of Gender

Question 1

What is the term ‘gender’ used for?

Answer 1

‘Gender’ is used to distinguish between the biological fact of ‘sex’, and the social and cultural characteristics associated w being male or female

( The dichotomy/difference between biological sex and gender is further complicated bc hay individuals who are not easily categorised by their external (biological) genitalia, and also by others who feel their anatomical body is out of line with their subjective sense of being male or female )

Question 2

How is gender identity imposed and reinforced?
(Examples of gendering practises?)

Answer 2

• Literally at birth the midwife will say ‘it’s a boy/girl’
• From then on – name, clothes, toys, etc.
• Children take on gender identity – feel and behave differently
• Work roles gendered
  NOTE: Might have to suppress similarities/exaggerate differences to fit these exclusive identities
  NOTE: This can lead to long term health effects – e.g. girls less active than boys–> self-fulfilling prophecies

Question 3

Examples of gender differences in health for physical activity?

Answer 3

• Girls enjoy PA less + are less confident than boys as they age
• Narrow gender norms and a failure to adapt sport–> instills lack of confidence–> shapes adult PA habits

these reflect wider sociocultural norms - these Produce lifelong effects; aka women having longer LE but higher morbidity rate

Question 4

Examples of gender differences in CVD?

Answer 4

Coronary heart disease:
* 2007 looked at whether masculinity is detrimental to men’s health (CHD 10y younger than women). Used categorisation of M/F which asked participants to self ID
* In men, higher ‘femininity’ scores (expressive characteristics?)–> lower risk of CHD death concluded
* I.e. toxic masculinity? Less expressive, more limited ’masculine’ self-image–> increased risk
* Shows that the SC of gender plays a role in health

Question 5

Explain what is meant by the social construction of gender (and give examples?)

5 MARKER

Answer 5

Gender is a social construct – distinct from sex; may or not be determined by biology
Gender: the social/cultural characteristics associated with being male and female E.g. clothes, names, toys
Gender roles assigned at birth; society reacts to that in different ways

The social construct of gender has effects on healthcare, e.g. physical exercise – boys encouraged to do more PA, girls discouraged–> has lifelong health effects – less enjoyment, confidence
Masculinity linked to higher CHD rates – adopting risky health behaviours, seeking advice less, etc.