Title: Introduction to Gender and Sexuality | Boundless Psychology
Headings: Introduction to Gender and Sexuality
Introduction to Gender and Sexuality
Defining Sex, Gender, and Sexuality
Learning Objectives
Key Takeaways
Key Points
Key Terms
Sex
Gender
Cultural Variations of Gender
Sexuality
The Standard Model of the Terms

Content: Those who identify with a gender that is different from their biological sex are called transgender. Cultural Variations of Gender
Since the term “sex” refers to biological or physical distinctions, characteristics of sex will not vary significantly between different human societies. For example, persons of the female sex, in general, regardless of culture, will eventually menstruate and develop breasts that can lactate. Characteristics of gender, on the other hand, may vary greatly between different societies. For example, in American culture, it is considered feminine (or a trait of the female gender) to wear a dress or skirt. However, in many Middle Eastern, Asian, and African cultures, dresses or skirts (often referred to as sarongs, robes, or gowns) can be considered masculine. Similarly, the kilt worn by a Scottish male does not make him appear feminine in his culture. Sexuality
“Human sexuality” refers to people’s sexual interest in and attraction to others, as well as their capacity to have erotic experiences and responses. People’s sexual orientation is their emotional and sexual attraction to particular sexes or genders, which often shapes their sexuality. Sexuality may be experienced and expressed in a variety of ways, including thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviors, practices, roles, and relationships.