A Talk on Gender Sensitivity - Sex Vs Gender?

A Talk on Gender Sensitivity

Sex vs Gender?

Sex

- Refers to the biological or physical attributes which distinguish males from females

- It is universal and unchanging (genes, hormones, reproductive organs)

- It is natural

Gender

- Refers to traits, characteristics, and roles differences between male and female

- It is culturally determined

- varies across cultures, places and changes over time

- Is socially constructed, therefore can be CHANGED.

Gender

- Refers to the socially determined differences between two sexes:

- the relationship between women and men

- and their social roles in their societies.

Gender Roles

- These differences and the resulting asymmetric power relations have left a legacy whereby women

- are more likely to be disadvantaged relative to men

- have less access to resources, benefits, information and decision-making

- have fewer rights both within the household and in public sphere

Male

-masculine

-manly, manful, virile, macho, strong, vigorous, robust, sturdy, hardy, powerful, masculine, athletic, brave, daring, courageous, bold, forceful.

Female

-feminine, girlish, gentle, soft, dainty, delicate, weak, emotional.

What is Gender Role Stereotyping?

- Are learned behaviors in a given society

- Conditioning which activities, tasks and responsibilities are considered feminine and masculine.

- It is the tendency to ascribe characteristics and roles to males and females.

- All characteristics expected of male are considered true for all males as a group.

- While the characteristics expected of females are considered true for all females as a group.

- Gender role stereotyping is acquired through socialization – the process by which society influences its members to internalized attitudes and expectations.

Role Stereotypes: The