Understanding Sex and Gender in the Philippines

The process of sexual intercourse.

The biological distinction between males and females based on reproductive function, characterized by different chromosomes, genitalia, and hormones.

The biological structures involved in reproduction, including ovaries, testes, and genitalia.

The unique set of chromosomes, primarily the X and Y chromosomes, that determine an individual's biological sex.

The genetic makeup of an individual, including their sex chromosomes.

Physical characteristics that distinguish males and females, often developing during puberty.

Individuals born with both male and female or incomplete genitalia.

The state of being neither male nor female, with a chromosomal makeup of XO.

Biological sex is fixed at birth, but gender identity is culturally constructed and can differ from one's assigned sex.

Some advocate that men and women are 'equal but different,' with complementary roles in society.

The idea that men and women are 'equal but different' implies that both genders contribute equally to society, avoiding notions of superiority or inferiority.

The theory that biological sex leads to inherent differences in behavior and social roles.

People with incomplete genitalia or variations in their chromosomes may exhibit behavior patterns traditionally associated with both genders.

The idea that gender is not fixed by biology but acquired through cultural learning and experiences.

The belief that men and women have distinct and complementary roles in society, with neither being inherently superior.

The concept of gender hierarchy, which positions one gender as dominant and the other as subordinate.

The idea that women's biological roles, like childbirth and breastfeeding, make them naturally suited for domestic and childcare responsibilities.

The presence of a Y chromosome in a male embryo triggers the production of male hormones, which stimulate the development of male genitalia and suppress female genitalia.

The theory that biological differences, like the structure of male and female genitalia, influence psychological differences between men and women.

The concept that a man's outward-facing genitals, like his penis, symbolize his active and dominant nature.

At a later stage, the female gonad (future ovary) produces hormones responsible for the development of female genitalia.

Hormones are secretions of the endocrine glands, which include the pituitary, adrenal, thyroid, primary sex glands, and the pancreas.

The concept that a woman's inward-facing genitals, like her vagina, symbolize her passive and receptive nature.

The primary function of hormones is to stimulate the development of primary sex characteristics, making individuals capable of reproduction.

The idea that male promiscuity is justified by the separation of a man's physical act of sex from his emotional involvement due to the external location of his genitals.

The idea that a woman's emotional involvement is necessary for sexual intercourse because her internal genitals connect her physically and emotionally.

Hormones are also responsible for the development of secondary sex characteristics, like body hair and muscle development.

The theory that hormonal differences between men and women are responsible for gender differences in personality and behavior.

Despite having different hormonal profiles, both men and women produce both male and female hormones.

Differences in secondary sex characteristics can vary significantly within the same sex and between individuals.

Some traits, such as hemophilia and color-blindness, are linked to genes on the X chromosome and are more common in men due to the absence of a second X chromosome to compensate.

The expectation that women should be responsible for household work and childcare, in addition to their other responsibilities.

The idea that women's roles are naturally confined to the home, limiting their opportunities and social participation.

A situation where women choose to prioritize protection and security by accepting subservient roles to men.

The lack of support and solidarity among women, hindering their collective struggle against gender inequality.

The concept that men prioritize self-fulfillment through work or pleasure, often at the expense of relationships.

The tendency for women to defer to men in decision-making, even within the home.

The isolation experienced by women due to societal expectations and their focus on domestic duties.

The increased risk of health problems for women due to the double burden of work and the lack of autonomy.

Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, and characteristics assigned to women and men in a specific culture. These differences go beyond biological sex.

The 'sex-gender system' refers to how a society organizes itself based on biological sex. Social scientists use this term to understand the relationship between sex and gender roles.

While many cultures see gender as natural and linked to biological sex, the specific definitions of masculine and feminine vary widely. This means that what is considered 'masculine' or 'feminine' can change across cultures.

In some cultures, women are seen as sexually aggressive, challenging the typical view of women as passive. This shows how gender roles can be reversed in different societies.

Gender expectations can even differ within the same culture, with social class playing a significant role. For instance, women in wealthier classes might face stricter social expectations than women in working-class families.

Gender roles can also change over time. As societies evolve, so do the expectations and norms associated with being a man or a woman.

Physical strength might be more heavily associated with masculinity in working-class occupations that involve manual labor, while in professional classes, it might be less central to defining masculinity.

Gender is a complex and dynamic concept that is shaped by cultural, social, and historical factors. It is important to remember that gender expectations are not fixed and can vary greatly between societies and over time.