Identity and expression Historically, the terms "sex" and "gender" have been used interchangeably, but their uses are becoming increasingly distinct, and it is important to understand the differences between the two. This article will look at the meaning of "sex" and the differences between the sexes.
It will also look at the meaning of "gender," and the concepts of gender roles, gender identity, and gender expression. In general terms, "sex" refers to the biological differences between males and females, such as the genitalia and genetic differences.
Sometimes, a person's genetically assigned sex does not line up with their gender identity. These individuals might refer to themselves as transgender, non-binary, or gender-nonconforming. Share on Pinterest "Sex" generally refers to biological differences. The differences between male and female sexes are anatomical and physiological.
For instance, male and female genitalia, both internal and external are different. Similarly, the levels and types of hormones present in male and female bodies are different. Genetic factors define the sex of an individual. Women have 46 chromosomes including two Xs and men have 46 including an X and a Y. The Y chromosome is dominant and carries the signal for the embryo to begin growing testes. Both men and women have testosterone , estrogen , and progesterone.
However, women have higher levels of estrogen and progesterone, and men have higher levels of testosterone. For instance, some men are born with two or three X chromosomes, just as some women are born with a Y chromosome. In some cases, a child is born with a mix between female and male genitalia. They are sometimes termed intersex, and the parents may decide which gender to assign to the child.
