Explain the difference between key concepts in the field, such as “sex,” “gender

Question

Explain the difference between key concepts in the field, such as “sex,” “gender,” “sexuality,” and “sexual orientation”; Discuss how sexuality is socially constructed and compare norms and cultural perspectives on sexual behavior across societies; Describe the ways in which our culture and society shape our sexual opinions and experiences; Illustrate how gender influences sexual attitudes and behaviors; Better understand sexual practices and perspectives from a sociological perspective; Recognize how sex and sexualities are marketed, packaged and sold by society; and Critically examine how societies regulate sexual behavior.

Explanation / Answer

First, let us define these terms:

Sex: Biological traits associated with being male or female

Gender: Social constructs attached to being a man or a woman that influence one’s personal identity. Eg: Masculine, feminine

Sexuality: sexual feelings, thoughts and capacity that are very individualized.

Sexual orientation: The sexual identity of a person based on who they are sexually attracted to

Sexuality is socially constructed and the norm across all societies is heterosexuality. According to Michael Foucault stated that the term “homosexual” was invented in the 1800s when male aristocrats were having intercourse with other men. Queen Victoria appointed physicians to study the situation and they invented the words homosexual and heterosexual. Heterosexuality was then established as the norm. Since the 1800s, heterosexuality has still remained the norm across most cultures. However, in the recent past, many individuals have sought to establish sexuality as a more fluid concept.

In Islamic nations, homosexuality is a punishable criminal offence, while in other western countries, it is viewed as away from the norm but not unnatural. Many countries have legalised civil unions of people regardless of their sexual orientation.

Cultural norm plays a very significant role in shaping one’s sexual attitude. If a culture regards homosexuality as abnormal, individuals who are homosexual are conflicted by their natural urges and the expectations of society. This puts tremendous pressure on individuals on whether they should go against their natural instincts or outwardly conform to the norms of society.

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