Psychological and Biological Influences on Gender Roles

Abstract

Gender identity and gender roles are complicated phenomena that are likely impacted by biology as well as psychosocial influences. Nature and nurture are commonly seen as opposing forces, when, in reality, they work in concert, and our environments influence our biological processes. Due to historical factors, current research into how gender identity is shaped primarily focuses on the effects of hormones on neurobiology. Adult hormone levels do not seem to influence gender identity, but there is some evidence that intrauterine hormone exposure may. There is also evidence that psychosocial factors contribute to gender identity. As we continue to explore the basis for our multifaceted identities, we should bear in mind that we are more than just a sum of our parts.