Gender, Sex, and Sexuality

Distinguishing Gender and Sex

Distinguishing Gender and Sex

Gender and sex are related but distinct concepts. Sex typically refers to the biological and physiological characteristics that define humans as male or female, such as reproductive anatomy and chromosomal differences. Gender refers to the roles, behaviors, activities, and expectations that society considers appropriate for men, women, and other gender identities.

Expression and Identity

Gender expression is how individuals present their gender to the outside world, like clothing and behavior. Gender identity is a personal conception of oneself as male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum. While sex is often fixed at birth, gender identity can be more fluid and personal.

Differentiating Gender Identity from Sexual Orientation

Gender identity and sexual orientation are not the same. Gender identity is about who someone knows themselves to be in terms of gender (e.g., male, female, transgender, non-binary). In contrast, sexual orientation refers to the emotional, romantic, and/or erotic attraction a person feels toward others (e.g., heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, pansexual). 

Describe what it means that someone is transgender

Being transgender means that an individual's gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Example, a person assigned female at birth may identify as male.

Discuss different forms of transitioning among trans individuals and how these are not a requirement of being trans

Various forms, including social, legal, or medical aspects. Transitioning is not a requirement to identify as transgender; individuals may choose to transition in different ways or not at all.

How do perceptions of trans and intersex folks vary by culture? 

Perceptions of trans and intersex individuals vary significantly across cultures. Some societies have long recognized multiple gender identities beyond the male-female binary and may have established roles for individuals who do not conform to traditional gender norms. Other cultures may have more rigid views, leading to stigmatization or discrimination against trans and intersex people. Cultural context greatly influences how individuals experience their identities and the acceptance they receive.

Describe the two primary sex hormones and the role they play in sexual development.

1. Testosterone is typically associated with male sexual development and is produced in larger amounts in males. Its role is in the development of male reproductive tissues, like the testes and prostate, and promotes secondary sexual characteristics, like increased muscle, bone mass, and the growth of body hair.

2. Estrogen is primarily linked to female sexual development. It is involved in the development of female reproductive tissues, the ovaries and uterus, and is responsible for secondary sexual characteristics such as breast development and the regulation of the menstrual cycle.

3. Both hormones are essential for sexual motivation and behavior, influencing various physiological and psychological aspects of sexual development in both males and females.