In modern times, the issue of social self-identification has become more acute. Identity is important in terms of building interaction with others. Therefore, gender is a socially constructed identity that can be interpreted differently around the globe.
One should recognize the difference between gender, sex, and sexuality. Sex comprises biological traits associated with being a man or woman (Zevallos). Sexuality refers to identity and practices that may or may not be attributed to sex or gender (Zevallos). On the contrary, gender is a social construct resulting from the observation of cultural and historical aspects of social interactions studied by social constructionists (Zevallos). In other words, gender is about the way society deals with human bodies and the consequences of adopting the relevant concepts in the lives of people (Zevallos). Thus, gender and sex are not the same because they have different implications.
Gender identities are based on dialectical principles, thus creating an opposition between two groups. In view of this, masculinity and femininity guide social interactions in society. Masculinity refers to sets of processes, including practices and interactions between males and females, and how they affect human experiences and culture (Zevallos). However, being masculine or un-masculine is dictated by culture and may vary from country to country (Zevallos). For instance, masculine behaviors in Mexico differ from those in Western societies.
Besides, it is crucial to understand that gender does not make one compare men and women. Thinking from the perspective of family and economy allows puting gender into a specific context and developing a new understanding of how it works. For example, in a range of African cultures, women are permitted to marry other women (Zevallos). It does not mean these couples have sexual relations because the main purpose of such marriages is an economic concern.
In conclusion, gender is a socially and culturally based construct that determines the interactions within society. One should remember that gender and sex are different due to sociological and biological aspects. Moreover, the concepts of masculine and feminine gender traits vary in different cultures.
Works Cited
“Masculinities — Raewyn Connell Interview at Women’s Worlds 2011.” Other Sociologist, 2014.
“Nandi Female Husbands.” Other Sociologist, 2014.
“Sex, Gender and Sexuality – Sociology Definitions.” Other Sociologist, 2014.
Zevallos, Zuleyka. “Sociology of Gender”, Other Sociologist, 2014.