The main topic of the text is the multifaceted process of gender identity development, which begins in early childhood and is influenced by a spectrum of biological, cognitive, and social factors. It distinguishes between gender identity and sexual orientation, examines the social construction of gender roles and expressions, and discusses the impact of socialization and cognitive development on gender. The text also touches on gender differences in psychology and social behavior, emphasizing the importance of gender-sensitive education in early childhood for lifelong implications.
Show More
Sex is assigned at birth based on physical characteristics
Gender identity is an individual's deeply felt internal experience of gender
Gender identity exists on a spectrum and includes a range of identities, including transgender and non-binary
Children become aware of physical gender differences around two years old
Children can verbally identify their own gender by around three years old
Most children develop a stable sense of their gender identity by the age of four
Sexual orientation refers to a person's emotional and sexual attraction to others
It is important to differentiate between gender identity and sexual orientation
Gender roles are the social and cultural expectations that dictate how individuals should behave based on their assigned sex
Gender expression refers to the external manifestation of one's gender identity
Gender roles and expressions can be fluid and individuals may express a combination of masculine and feminine traits
Genetics play a role in shaping gender identity and behaviors
Hormones can also influence gender development
Evolutionary factors may have shaped biological differences between sexes to support different roles in reproduction and survival
Social learning theories highlight the impact of socialization on gender development
Children learn about gender roles and expectations through observation, imitation, and reinforcement
Children are often rewarded for conforming to societal gender norms and may face disapproval or punishment for non-conforming behaviors
Cognitive theories propose that children actively construct concepts of gender through their interactions with the environment
Cognitive development in gender involves stages such as recognizing gender identity, understanding the stability of gender over time, and realizing the consistency of gender across different situations
Children's drive for cognitive consistency motivates them to adopt behaviors that are congruent with their gender understanding
Studies suggest that males are more likely to engage in physical aggression and are overrepresented in violent crime statistics
Females may exhibit more relational aggression, which affects social relationships and status
Women often prioritize emotional bonds and communication, whereas men may focus on shared activities and problem-solving
Gender development can influence a child's self-concept
Gender development can impact a child's social interactions
Gender development can shape a child's future roles in society
00
The process of recognizing one's own ______ typically begins at the age of ______ and becomes stable by the age of ______.
gender identity
three
four
01
Unlike gender identity, ______ orientation is about who a person is ______ and sexually attracted to.
sexual
emotionally
02
Definition of Gender Roles
Social/cultural norms dictating behavior based on assigned sex.
