Lecture 1: Intro to Gender

What major themes are explored in the context of psychology and gender intersectionality?

Power, lived experience, and the complexity of gender are key themes.

Why is studying gender in isolation considered limited?

Because gender is shaped by social, cultural, historical, and political forces.

What does the term 'intersectionality' describe?

It describes overlapping systems of oppression, emphasizing that gender cannot be understood separately from race, class, sexuality, or ability.

Who coined the term 'intersectionality'?

Kimberlé Crenshaw.

What is the 'Gender Similarities Hypothesis'?

It posits that men and women are more alike than different.

What is a key critique of traditional psychology regarding gender?

It often views gender as a stable binary category and emphasizes difference over similarity.

What does Crenshaw suggest about visibility in experiences related to intersectionality?

Intersectionality makes invisible experiences visible and is essential for understanding individuals and systems.

According to Shields, how should gender be viewed?

Gender is not a stand-alone category; it is always intersectional.

What harm does studying gender without considering race, class, or ability cause?

It creates a one-size-fits-all approach that erases marginalized experiences.

What are some responsibilities in learning and practicing in the field of psychology concerning gender?

Engagement in humility and reflexivity, centering lived experience, and challenging harmful assumptions about gender.