Boys Life College Essay Example
Boys Life College Essay Example

Boys Life College Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (330 words)
  • Published: October 21, 2016
  • Type: Essay
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Hanna Rosin’s article titled "A Boy’s Life" centers around Brandon Simms, who was assigned male at birth but identifies and presents as a girl. This topic is highly debated as individuals in this situation are known as transgender. Rosin presents differing perspectives on the establishment of gender roles and identities. Some experts argue that gender identity is influenced by brain function, while others believe it is predetermined genetically or shaped by upbringing.

Tina, the mother of Brandon Simms, was advised that being transgender was a condition that could be fixed and she should resist Brandon's behavior or allowing him to engage in activities associated with the opposite gender (553). It was believed that Brandon may have associated his mother as the protector of the family, causing him to disconnect from traditional gender roles (549). Dr. John Money ar

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gued that our sexual behavior and orientation as male or female is not innate, but learned (554). The case study conducted by Dr. Money, in which a young boy underwent castration after a failed circumcision, did not support his theory and instead discredited it (554). Geneticist Eric Vilain disagrees with Milton Diamond's theories and argues that there is no biological evidence for transsexualism (557).

"Becoming Members of Society" by Devor discusses the concept that gender roles and identities are taught. According to Devor (530), children initially adopt the values of their society without much discrimination, absorbing the general societal standards for proper behavior. They link physical attributes to gender identity, regardless of anatomical factors (529). Devor cites various studies on children of different ages and their methods of identifying gender through doll appearances. Additionally

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Devor suggests that children believe that changing clothing and hairstyles can alter their gender (529).

The debate on whether it is the brain, social factors, or genetics that influence gender identity disorders in children as young as 18 to 24 months is still ongoing (528). This debate highlights the significant impact these disorders have on children at such a young and innocent stage of their lives.

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