Biological explanations Flashcards
(10 cards)
Outline the role of testosterone in gender development
- Masculinisation of the brain
- Average male has more than average female
- Surge during puberty
What are the secondary sex characteristics of male, stimulated by testosterone
Deepened voice, body hair
What are primary sex characteristics of male
Penis development and ability to produce sperm
What emotional characteristic is oestrogen associated with?
Emotional sensitivity of females
What cycle does oestrogen influence in females?
The menstral cycle
Outline the role of oxytocin in females
Released during breast feeding
Strengthens characteristics of nurturing
Strengths of biological explanations to gender
+ Research to support (David Reiner, Van Goozen)
Outline weaknesses of biological explanations to gender-
- Biologically reductionist, ignores culture (Papa Gunena)
- Socially sensitive, suggests that being transgender is abnormal
Outline the study into effects of biology on gender, by Van Goozen
Transgender women given oestrogen, decline in aggression and visuo spatial skills
Transgender women given testosterone and increase in aggression and visuo spatial skills
