The development of gender Essay Example

child's gender and encourages them to adopt male or female behavioral patterns that are accepted by their specific culture and society.

2.1 The notion of sexual identity

Discussing the distinction between sex and gender is currently relevant. Sex refers to the biological characteristics present at conception, where a sperm from the male parent fertilizes an ovum from the female parent. Half of the normal sperms carry x chromosomes, while the other half carries y chromosomes. Inheriting an xy chromosome determines maleness in the future child. The y chromosome controls the levels of endogens that impact the formation of male sex organs and brain development during the foetal stage. In contrast, the absence of endogens leads to the development of a female baby.

Usually, chromosomes determine an individual's sex. If someone has xy chromosomes, they are typically male in terms of physical traits and characteristics. However, there are exceptions to this pattern. Women with androgenital syndrome may experience changes in appearance and behavior similar to males. Similarly, individuals with testicular feminizing syndrome have male chromosomes but lack sensitivity to testosterone, resulting in outwardly female attributes. Typically, women produce higher levels of progesterone and estrogen while men produce more testosterone and androgen. In males, the presence of endogen affects hormone production regulation by the hypothalamus; however, it does play a role in females' menstrual and ovulation cycle. It is important to note that hormones can influence behavior, personality, and emotional disposition (Coy and Phoenic 1971).

Animal experiments can provide potential evidence of the correlation between androgens and aggressive behavior.

There are criticisms of the findings at 2.2.

All experiments were carried out on animals, and it is not safe to assume that

the hormonal changes observed in animals would result in similar behavioral changes in humans. The rat experiment solely concentrated on aggression within animal behavior, while generalizing the same explanation for female aggression across all social scenarios.

The monkey experiment failed to consider the fact that androgens produced masculine genitalia in female monkeys. This implies that the behaviors of monkeys could have resulted from them being treated as males because of their appearance. Social factors were not put into consideration as well. Oakley (1981) accepts that dominant males in monkey groups have higher testosterone levels than less dominant ones, but argues that the social context also affects hormone levels. Experiments show that when less dominant monkeys are caged with females only, their testosterone levels rise.

A study by Archer Lloyd examined the link between testosterone and aggression in boys aged twelve to thirteen over three years. The findings revealed that although the boys experienced a significant increase in testosterone levels, there was no corresponding rise in aggression. Thus, it can be concluded that there was no observed correlation between testosterone levels and aggression throughout the duration of the study.

3. GENDER ROLE

Gender roles start to develop when children become aware of their physical sex differences around the age of two or three (Atkinson, 1993). During this time, children begin exhibiting behaviors and characteristics that are considered suitable for their gender within their specific culture. Right from infancy, boys and girls are dressed dissimilarly and given different toys to play with. Boys tend to be perceived as strong, attentive, and coordinated, whereas girls are frequently viewed as smaller, gentler, and less concentrated. Parents have particular expectations based on the gender

of their kids.

Psychologists commonly believe that boys are treated differently, as evidenced by the rougher handling of male babies compared to female babies. This distinction stems from socialization practices influenced by gender stereotypes and roles (Martyana and Watson, 1976).

During adolescence, there are variations in individuals' behavior regarding their interests, attitudes, and occupational choices. In society, women are commonly expected to prioritize being "nice," "kind," and "helpful" while following societal rules instead of pursuing success. Those who challenge these norms often face scorn and devaluation (Dweck, 1978).

Attitudes towards gender roles have changed, with women becoming more independent and less assertive emotionally. They have also gained skills in verbal tasks and are now actively involved in politics and household finances. In the past, certain sports were seen as only for men; however, women now participate in these sports as well, including boxing and football.

However, it is expected that occupational choices will reflect these qualities. Boys are predicted to pursue careers in science or medicine, while girls are anticipated to choose roles as secretaries or nurses. Psychologists have developed alternative explanations by studying developmental processes that help determine the influence of both nature and nurture on gender development.