Untitled Flashcards Set

Topic 7: Sex, Gender, and Sexuality

Key Terms & Concepts

• Sex: Biological differences between males and females.

• Gender: Socially constructed roles, behaviors, and expectations.

• Sexual Dimorphism: Physical differences between sexes.

• Intersex: Individuals with both male and female traits.

• Cisgender: Gender identity matches birth sex.

Gender Identity & Expression

• Performative Nature of Gender: Gender is expressed through actions.

• Gender Fluidity: Identity is not fixed; it can change.

• Gender Identity vs. Expression: Internal experience vs. outward behavior.

• Gender Continuum: Gender exists beyond binary categories.

Cultural Constructions of Gender

• Masculinity & Femininity: Ideas vary by culture.

• Mead’s Studies on Gender Roles:

  • Arapesh: Both genders are cooperative.

  • Mundugumor: Both are aggressive.

  • Tchambuli: Men are emotional, women are dominant.

Third Genders in Different Cultures

• Hijras (India): Religious roles but face discrimination.

• Two-Spirits (Indigenous North America): Alternative gender identities.

Gender Stratification

• Unequal distribution of power and access to resources.

• Women face barriers in education, employment, and finance.

Gender-Based Violence

• Son Preference: Sex-selective abortion (India, China).

• Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIWG2S): Red Dress Day (May 5th) honors victims.

• Honor Killings: Cultural violence against women.

• Violence Against Men: Underreported intimate partner violence.

Sexuality & Cultural Perspectives

• Defined by culture, not just biology.

• Examples:

  • Dani (New Guinea): Limited sexual expression.

  • Ju/’hoansi (Southern Africa): Sexual exploration is normal.

  • Mati (Suriname): Fluid relationships.

  • Machismo (Nicaragua): Male dominance in sexuality.

  • Japan: Hostess clubs reinforce corporate masculinity.

  • Mexican Gay Migration: LGBTQ+ seek freedom abroad.