Differences between sex and gender

Sex

  • Biological term which describes the biological idea of male or female

  • XX or XY

  • Gene expression

  • Hormone types and levels

  • Uncontrollable inner workings

Gender

  • Social construct

  • Allows each individual to identify themselves as being either feminine or masculine

  • Influences behaviour, appearance and presentation

  • Control over how you behave and present yourself

  • Cannot choose sex, can choose gender.

  • Differences between sex and gender - gender identity disorder

    • Undergo transitioning/becoming transgender

  • Majority of people view sex and gender in alignment → sex-role stereotypes

    • Expectations and perceptions that individuals and society have as to what is appropriate behaviour for each sex

    • Results in expectations but also a ‘justification’ for discriminatory practices on basis of sex