Chapter 5

Lecture Notes

Biology creates males and females, but it is culture that creates our concepts of masculinity and femininity and its inherent fluidity and complexity.

In Western society, we see the sexes as polar opposites. This view is reflected in the popular terminology opposite sex. We associate different qualities with different genders. Our traditional gender stereotypes fit this pattern of polar opposites.

Men are characterized as being aggressive, rational, embody instrumentality, task-oriented, and want sex. On the other hand, women are characterized as passive, irrational, embodying expressiveness, emotion-oriented, and want love. Stereotypes reflect the probabilities that a woman or man will have certain characteristics based on gender.

Gender stereotypes developed during childhood can be carried into adult lives and possibly result in sexism. Sexism is the discrimination based on sex rather than individual merits. Sexism is often associated with gender stereotypes and may discourage individuals from expressing their full range of emotions or seeking certain vocations. These identities are combination of nature and nurture. Some qualities are biologically based and some are culturally based.