Influences of Biology and Culture on Gender Differences

Natural Selection

Process where organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on these traits to the next generation

Evolutionary Psychology

Study of how universal human behaviors and mental processes have evolved over time

Culture

Beliefs, customs, and traditions of a specific group of people

Norms

Standards or rules that govern what is acceptable behavior in a group or society

Social Norms

Expected standards of behavior in a social group

Sex

Biological characteristics that define male and female

Gender

Socially constructed roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male or female

Transgender

Someone whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth

Cisgender

Individuals whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth

Testosterone

Primary male sex hormone responsible for the development of male reproductive tissues and characteristics

Androgynous

Displaying both male and female characteristics or qualities

Personal Space

Physical space surrounding an individual that they consider their own or that which should not be invaded by others

Empathy

Ability to understand and share the feelings of another

Social Dominance

Behavior intended to assert power and control over others in a social setting

Aggression

Physical or verbal behavior aimed at causing harm or injury to others

Sexuality

Sexual preferences, behaviors, and identity

Mating Preferences

Individual's desires and criteria for selecting a mate

Peer-Transmitted Culture

Transmission of cultural norms, behaviors, and beliefs among peers

Social-Role Theory

Theory that suggests behavior is influenced by societal expectations and norms related to gender roles