Sex and Gender

• Sex and gender were historically used interchangeably, but have become distinct over time.
• Sex is determined by biology and refers to physical and physiological differences between males and females.
• Sex is assigned at birth based on sexual anatomy and reproductive organs.
• Males are typically assigned to those with a penis, while females are assigned to those with a vagina.
• Biological markers, such as sex chromosomes, also determine biological sex.
• Gender refers to the social and cultural distinctions associated with being male or female.
• Gender involves expectations that identify what it means to be male or female.
• Males are typically expected to be masculine, while females are expected to be feminine.
• Gender manifestations include colors, toys, clothes, and other items assigned to males and females.

Gender Identity

• Gender identity refers to the conception of oneself as male or female, and is the outward manifestation of masculinity or femininity.
• Transgender people are those whose biological sex does not align with their gender identity.
• Transgender men are males who are not comfortable identifying as men.
• Transgender women are women who are not comfortable identifying as women.

Sexual Orientation

• Sexual orientation pertains to emotional and sexual attraction to others.
• Sexual orientation describes patterns of sexual, romantic, and emotional attraction, as well as one's sense of identity based on those attractions.
• Heterosexuals are people attracted to the opposite sex.
• Homosexuals, or gay/lesbian people, are attracted to the same sex.
• Bisexual people are attracted to both sexes.
• LGBT refers to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.

Appreciating Diversity

• Sexuality is complex and shaped by various factors, including culture and religion.
• Identifying sexuality can be more difficult for lesbians, bisexuals, gays, and transgender individuals.
• "Coming out" as transgender can be difficult due to cultural or religious taboos.
• Transgender people may be viewed as deviants who do not conform to societal norms.
• Sharing one's sexuality can be awkward and challenging, with the fear of rejection and condemnation common among non-straight individuals.
• Diversity and acceptance are essential, and it is important to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels safe.

Theories and Views on Gender

• Increased access to information has allowed people to examine the social and political climate better.
• In ancient times, some communities held women in high regard due to the concept of the divine feminine.
• With the rise of patriarchy, women were confined to the home, and disparities in the treatment of men and women became evident.
• Patriarchy is a male-dominated power structure in which women are expected to submit.
• Many cultures globally are patriarchies, where men hold economic, social, and political power.
• In a patriarchal society, men often hold power and privilege, from the family to the workplace.
• Women are often relegated to housework and child-rearing and are expected to obey men.
• Historically, some societies did not allow women to inherit property.
• Women faced many restrictions, including being denied the right to study, vote, or participate in politics.

Historical Views on Gender

• In ancient Egypt, women were considered equal to men in every aspect except for jobs, and could choose whom to marry, divorce, administer property, and enter into legal contracts.
• In Greece, women had few rights compared to men, and were only confined in the home and expected to care for the children.
• In Rome, women were expected to look after the house and rear the children, and were considered subordinate.
• In China, women did not have the same status as men, and were often ill-treated and made to compete for their husband's affection with concubines.

Women Empowerment

• Women empowerment is the battle-cry of the women's liberation movement of feminism
• The movement called for reforms that focus on issues confronting women, such as reproductive rights, violence against women, equal pay, the right to vote/legally own property.
• From the emergence of the feminist movement's first wave in the 19th century to the modern movement, women continue their fight for equality.
• Equality, reproductive rights, and freedom from gender-based violence are key demands of the women's rights movement.

Explore the distinctions between sex, determined by biology, and gender, shaped by social and cultural norms. Learn about biological markers, gender expectations, and the concept of gender identity as an internal understanding of oneself as male or female.