Chapter 10: Sex, Gender, and Sexuality

estrogens

are hormones that play important roles in the body, particularly in the female reproductive system.

androgens

are hormones, like testosterone, that play a role in male traits and reproductive activity.

menarche

the first time a girl gets her period, marking the beginning of her ability to have children.

spermarche

the first occurrence of sperm production in males, usually during puberty.

gender schemas

Mental frameworks that help people organize and interpret information about gender.

gender stereotypes

Refer to widely held beliefs about the characteristics and roles of men and women.

gender roles

Refer to the expectations and behaviors that society associates with being male or female.

gender identity

Refers to how a person perceives themselves in terms of gender. It can be male, female, a mix of both, neither, or something else.

cisgender

Refers to people whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth.

gender dysphoria

When a person feels a strong disconnect between their gender identity (how they feel inside) and their assigned gender at birth.

affirmative consent

All people involved in a situation, like a relationship or sexual activity, must clearly agree and say "yes" to participate

paraphilic disorder

A condition where a person has intense sexual urges or behaviors involving unusual objects, situations, or individuals that cause distress or harm.

sexual dysfunction

Refers to problems that affect a person's ability to enjoy or participate in sexual activity.