Gender in the News

Click on the following links. Please note these will open in a new window.

  1. What are the variations of biological sex discussed in the chapter and how do these variations differ across cultures? How does this relate to the “nature versus nurture” debate? Think of the stereotypical gender expressions expected of men and women and describe what comes to mind. Do you think biology has a greater impact on a person’s sex and gender identity and expression than social influences? Read www.simplypsychology.org/naturevsnurture.html and use examples to explain which side you believe has more influence (or if you believe they have equal influence) on sex and gender identity and expression. Be specific and cite the text as well as the article.
  2. As you learned from the chapter, anatomical sex can vary in many ways. Define the term intersex. Read the article www.slate.com/articles/sports/fivering_circus/2016/08/should_caster_semenya_be_allowed_to_compete_against_women.html. What are the arguments for banning Caster Semenya from competing against other women in the Olympics? Referencing evidence from your textbook, argue for whether you believe Semenya should have been able to compete in Women’s Track and Field.