Country-Specific Essay
SandyCheeks
THEMEANINGSOFBASICTERMS-1.pptxSex, Gender and the Social Construction of Gender
“SEX” is often seen as a binary
MALE XY
FEMALE XX
“Female”. . .
Or “Male”. . .
“SEX” is biology – for now, DNA doesn’t change
“GENDER” is a social construct
What’s MASCULINE?
What’s FEMININE?
Gender rules begin at birth
We internalize gender rules to the point where they seem “natural”
Boys don’t cry
Boys are tough
Boys play with guns and trucks
Boys are good at math
Boys are leaders
Girls are emotional
Girls are soft
Girls play with dolls and makeup
Girls don’t do math
Girls follow. . .where the boys lead
The “power” of pantsuits. . .
Men in skirts?
Which one is the nurse? Which one is the doctor?
What about “super-
heros?”
“God bless this ship and all who sail in her!”
“Crossing” gender lines. . .
Gender rules CAN and DO change
VOTING for political candidates was not a “feminine” behavior
MILITARY SERVICE MARRIAGE EQUALITY
