PSYC FPX 2800 Assessment 1 Foundations of Human Sexuality PSYC FPX 2800 Introduction to Human Sexuality

Date

Foundations of Human Sexuality

There are multiple schools of thought regarding theories of gender identity. Some argue that gender identity is exclusively based on biological factors, while others incorporate our evolving understanding of ourselves and our environment. Gender identity is not confined to a single theory; it is shaped by biological, societal, environmental, ritualistic, and behavioral expectations. Therefore, to fully understand the development of gender identity, it is essential to integrate various theories to promote healthy attitudes toward gender and self-definition.

One cognitive theory of early gender development was proposed by Lawrence Kohlberg in 1966. Kohlberg introduced a stage theory of gender development, suggesting that a child’s comprehension of gender progresses through distinct stages, becoming increasingly complex (“Cognition and gender development,” 2016). The first stage, known as gender identity, involves a child recognizing their own gender and identifying the genders of others. In the second stage, typically around the age of four, children grasp the concept of gender stability, understanding that gender remains constant and is primarily influenced by external characteristics such as hair length or clothing. Finally, by around age seven, children achieve gender constancy, realizing that gender extends beyond outward appearances (“Cognition and gender development,” 2016).

PSYC FPX 2800 Assessment 1 Foundations of Human Sexuality

In contrast, the biological approach to gender identity asserts that gender is determined by hormones and chromosomes, dismissing the distinction between sex and gender, as gender behavior is a product of biological sex (McLeod, 2016). Unlike the cognitive theory, which highlights the role of understanding in shaping gender perceptions, the biological perspective maintains that interpretations of sex are governed by chromosomes and hormone levels.

My daughter Mariah’s gender development closely aligns with Kohlberg’s cognitive theory of early gender development. At the age of two, Mariah recognized her own gender and understood her parents’ genders. By age four, she comprehended the permanence of her gender based on her anatomy and identified genders based on external attributes. By age eight, Mariah recognized that appearance does not dictate gender and understood the freedom of personal choice in gender expression.

Alternatively, Mariah’s gender identity development could also be interpreted through the biological approach. From a young age, Mariah displayed sensitivity, nurturance, and maternal instincts, showing a preference for nurturing play activities traditionally associated with femininity. This aligns with the evolutionary biological perspective, which suggests that gender roles are inherited instincts passed down through generations (McLeod, 2016).

In conclusion, both cognitive and biological theories of gender identity provide valuable insights into the formation of gender identity. A thorough understanding of gender identity development necessitates consideration of self-awareness, societal influences, and evolutionary instincts.

References

Cognition and gender development. (2016). OpenLearn. Retrieved June 16, 2016, from http://www.open.edu/openlearn/body-mind/childhood-youth/childhood-and-youthstudies/childhood/cognition-and-gender-development