3.3: Gender and Sexual Orientation

Sex

The biological classification of individuals as male or female based on anatomy and chromosomes.

Gender

The socially constructed roles, behaviors, and traits that a society considers appropriate for men and women.

Gender Schema Theory

A theory suggesting that children learn about gender roles and cultural expectations through mental frameworks.

Socialization

The lifelong process by which individuals internalize the values, beliefs, and norms of a society, including gender roles.

Sexual Orientation

A person's enduring emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to others.

Homosexual

Someone who is emotionally and/or sexually attracted to individuals of the same sex.

Heterosexual

Someone who is emotionally and/or sexually attracted to individuals of the opposite sex.

Bisexual

Someone who is emotionally and/or sexually attracted to individuals of both sexes.

Asexual

Someone who experiences little or no sexual attraction to others.

Pansexual

Someone who is emotionally and/or sexually attracted to individuals regardless of their gender identity or biological sex.

Gender Theory

A broad perspective on how gender is experienced and constructed, considering social, cultural, and psychological influences.

Gender Role Theory

The idea that children learn their gender identity and expected behaviors through observing and imitating gendered behaviors reinforced by society.