A Talk on Gender Sensitivity – Sex Vs Gender?
A Talk on Gender Sensitivity
Sex vs Gender?
– 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