Gender and Society Chapter 1: Understanding Sex, Gender, and Sexuality

They reflect normative notions of femininity and masculinity and often serve to justify the exclusion of individuals based on generalized characteristics.

Gender roles are culturally defined behaviors associated with masculinity and femininity, while gender stereotypes are generalized views or preconceptions about attributes or characteristics associated with men and women.

They can lead to exclusion, discrimination, and marginalization, as individuals are judged based on their perceived failure to meet gendered expectations.

Gender stereotypes can influence an individual's understanding of their own gender identity, and can also limit their expression of gender identity if they do not conform to societal norms.

Gender stereotypes can influence societal expectations of sexual orientation, and can lead to discrimination and marginalization of individuals who do not conform to these expectations.

Androgyny refers to the possession of both masculine and feminine characteristics, and challenges traditional gender stereotypes by blurring the boundaries between gender categories.

They can lead to discrimination, marginalization, and erasure, as individuals who identify as transgender may not conform to societal expectations of gender identity and expression.

Gender expression can challenge gender stereotypes by presenting a non-conforming gender identity or expression, which can help to broaden societal understanding and acceptance of gender diversity.

We can work to challenge and subvert gender stereotypes by recognizing and promoting gender diversity, and by promoting a more inclusive and accepting understanding of gender identity and expression.

Gender stereotypes are often based on and reinforce traditional gender roles, and can limit individual expression and potential by assigning certain characteristics or attributes to specific gender categories.