49.1 – Discuss gender similarities and differences in psychological traits. Gender: the socially constructed roles and characteristics by which a culture defines male and female.  Sex The two main categories in which humans & many other living things are divided on the basis of their reproductive functions- associated with being male or female Female - 2x chromosomes (XX) Male - 1x, 1y chromosomes (XY)

49.1 – Discuss gender similarities and differences in psychological traits. Males and females are alike in most ways – how we see, hear, learn, and remember, our levels of happiness, intelligence, etc.  Gender and Aggression Men admit to more harmful physical aggression than women. Women may be slightly more likely to commit acts of relational aggression: gossip, ostracism, spreading rumors, etc. Gender and Social Power In most societies around the world men place more importance on power and achievement and are more socially dominant. They tend to talk assertively, interpret, smile and apologize less. Such behaviors tend to help sustain social power inequities. Gender and Social Connectedness Females tend to be more concerned about making connections, talking face to face, and using conversation to explore relationships. Men enjoy doing activities side by side and tend to use conversation to communicate solutions. American teen girls send double the number of text messages of the average teen boy.

49.2 – Discuss the importance of gender roles and gender typing in development. The Nature of Gender  Gender Roles: a set of unexpected behaviors for males or for females.  Role: a set of expectations (norms) about social position, defining how those in the position ought to behave.  How Do We Learn to Be Male or Female? -Social Learning Theory - assumes that children acquire identity by observing and imitation others’ gender-linked behaviors (role of rewards and punishments). -Cognition also matters – gender schemas form early in life. Children compare themselves with their concepts of gender and either adjust their behavior accordingly, or experience feelings of confusion and discard. a) Gender Identity – our sense of being male or female. b) Gender Typing – the acquisition of a traditional masculine or feminine role. c) Transgender – an umbrella term describing people whose gender identity or expression differs from that associated with their birth sex.

49.2 – Discuss the importance of gender roles and gender typing in development. Cultural expectations for behavior, including attitudes, actions & personality traits Western culture? Gender roles: Cultural expectations for behavior, including attitudes, actions & personality traits Gender typing the acquisition of a particular masculine or feminine role Gender identity The individual’s sense of acquisition of a particular masculine or feminine role Influenced by both biological and environmental factors