Sex and Gender : An Introduction

by Lips, Hilary M.

• ISBN13: 9780767416146
• ISBN10: 0767416147
• Edition: 4th
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2000-07-14
• Publisher: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages

Summary

This is a comprehensive introduction to sex and gender theories, research, and issues, focusing on social psychological and feminist perspectives. The book examines the similarities and differences between women and men, where that knowledge comes from, and how that knowledge may itself be shaped and limited by cultural perceptions. The text is organized into three primary themes: Part I provides background to stereotypes, theories, and research; Part II is focused on biological and psychological dimensions; Part III examines sex and gender in social relationships.

Table of Contents

PART I. MYTHS, THEORIES, AND RESEARCH

1. Masculinity and Femininity: Myths and Stereotypes

2. Theoretical Perspectives on Sex and Gender

3. Researching Sex and Gender: Exploring the Whys and Hows

PART II. BEHAVIOR & EXPERIENCE: FEMALE—MALE SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES

4. World’s Apart? Gender Differences in Social Behavior and Experience

5. Biology and Environment: The Process of Becoming Female or Male

6. Perceptual and Cognitive Abilities: Gender Similarities and Differences

7. Sexual Lives and Orientations

8. Hormonal and Reproductive Connections

9. Mental and Physical Health: Stress, Change, and Adaptations

PART III. SEX AND GENDER IN SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS

10. Sex and Gender and Childhood: Constructing Gender

11. Family and Friends: Attachment, Intimacy, and Power

12. Economic and Political Life: Power, Status, and Achievement

13. Issues in the Workplace

14. Justice, Equity, and Social Change

Epilogue: The Ties That Bind: The Future of Sex and Gender