Sex and gender

• Sex - AO1


  - The biological distinction between females and males - innate and based of the chromosomes an individual is born with.
• Chromosomes - AO1


  - Influence the hormonal and anatomical differences that distinguish males and females

  - body shape, reproductive organs and hair growth
• Gender - AO1


  - The attitudes, behaviours and roles which we associate with a particular gender.

  - Sex is unable to change without reproductive surgery but the idea of gender was more fluid and an individual is able to act/behave more masculine and feminine by changing their behaviour.
• Sex-role stereotypes - A01


  - A set of beliefs and preconceived ideas about what is expected or appropriate for males and females in a given society.
• Sex role stereotypes are social expectations - AO1


  - Sex role stereotypes are shared by a culture or group and consist of expectations regarding how females and males behave

  - Passed down generations through enforcement of family member and society
• Sex-role stereotypes may or may not always be valid - AO1

  - There is no biological reasons for the behaviour men and women show.

  -Men responsible for DIY and women for cooking

  - Many sex-role stereotypes are incorrect assumptions and can lead to damaging and sexist attitudes.
• Research confirms sex role stereotypes in the media - AO1

  - Furnham and Farragher - 2000

  - Men were more likely to be shown in autonomous roles in a professional work place setting whilst women were often seen occupying familial roles within a domestic setting.