Differences between Sex and Gender

SEX

"The term sex refers to biological and physiological characteristics that define men and women"

                                                                                                    ( WHO , 2009)

GENDER

"Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities and attributes that a given a society considers appropriate for men and women"

                                                                                                     ( WHO)

The words gender and sex are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. Understanding distinction is important in discussions about identity, society and biology.

Gender is a social and cultural concept that refers to roles, behaviors and identities associated with being male or female. It is shaped by society, traditions and personal identity.

Sex refers to the biological and physiological characteristics that define humans as female or male.

There are some differences  between sex and gender.

1. Sex is biological

    It refers to physical and physiological differences between male and females such as reproductive organs and hormones.

2. Sex is social and cultural

    It is about roles, behaviors and expectations that society associates with being male or female. There are some cultural differences.

        Ex:- Some cultural people wear Sarom

                Some men wear some short

3. Sex has two main categories

    Male and female - These are based on biological traits like chromosomes and reproductive organs.

4. Gender has two main categories

    Masculine and feminine - These are based on cultural expectations of how men and women should behave.

5. Sex remains the some over time and culture

    A person's biological sex doesn't change based on where or when they live.

6. Gender roles change over time and culture

    What is considered masculine or feminine can be different indifferent societies and historical periods.

        Ex:- After marriage

7. Sex is determined by biological

    It is based on natural reproductive functions.

8. Gender is shaped by society

    It is influenced by traditions, beliefs and social expectations.

       Ex:- Sex, A person is assigned female at birth due to their reproductive organs

               Gender,  A person identities as a women and expresses their gender though feminine clothing and mannerisms.