Unit 3: Gender and Sexual Orientation

Gender identity

a person's internal cognition and inherent sense of self in regard to gender

Sexual orientation

a person's sexual and emotional attraction to another person

Biological sex

a person's anatomical/biological label based on genitalia, chromosomes, and hormones

Gender expression

a person's expression of gender identity, typically through their appearance, dress, and behavior

Psychological and Cognitive Factors of Gender and Sexual Orientation

-Develop an awareness of gender identity by age 5

-Identify orientation between 10-13 years old

-Intersex individuals have heightened exploration

Gender schema theory

categorize traits as male or female based on societal norms

Social and Cultural Factors of Gender and Sexual Orientation

-Caregivers shape identity based on exploration

-Social interactions reinforce gender norms

-Religious affiliation may impact orientation (84-44% of LGBTQ+ people find religion unfriendly)

-Laws regarding voting rights, ownership, and marriage

Biological Factors of Gender and Sexual Orientation

-Prenatal testosterone exposure may play a role in orientation and identity for women

-Brain structure and function may contribute to identity and orientation

-30% variability of orientation is genetic influences

-Biological basis for homosexuality is stronger in men than in women; women have stronger social and cultural influences

-Gay men and straight women's hypothalamus both react equally to the smell of male-sex hormones in sweat

Gender dysphoria

gender identity does not align with their biological sex (can lead to: body dissatisfaction, emotional distress, and social isolation)

Anxiety and Depression for LGBTQ+ people

higher rates of generalized anxiety and major depressive disorders (higher risk of suicidal attempts)

Minority Stress Theory (Meyer, 2003)

LGBTQ+ people experience chronic stress from societal discrimination (ie: hyper vigilance for fear of being outed or discriminated, shame or guilt about their identity)