The role of chromosomes and hormones

Chromosomes:

• The 23rd pair of chromosomes determines sex

• Female = XX, male = XY

• Ovary = carries one X, sperm carries one X or Y

• A Y carries the SRY gene which causes testes and male sex hormones

Hormones:

• A biochemical substance that circulates in the blood, determines sex and causes gender development

• T causes male sex organs to appear, it is also linked to aggression

• Oestrogen causes menstruation, can cause high irritability (PMS)

• Oxctocin causes contraction of the uterus during labour, lactation for breastfeeding and produced during sex

Debate of PMS

On one hand, the diagnosis of PMS can help those who struggle with fluctuating hormone levels get the help they need. On the other hand, it is a social construct that stereotypes female experience as erratic and out of control.

Research support

Wang gave 227 hypogonadal men T therapy for 180 days. It improved sexual function, libido, mood, muscle strength

Reductionist

Cognitive explanations, e.g. Kohlberg’s stages of gender development.