From Genes to Behavior Through Sex Hormones and Socialization: The Example of Gender Development

Abstract

Irving Gottesman is known primarily for his work in psychopathology, but he also had a long-standing interest in understanding psychological development generally (typical and atypical). Through his mentorship, he also influenced work in gender development. Characteristics related to sex and gender are ideally suited to study the interplay of genes and environment across development. We discuss how gender development is influenced by gonadal hormones present during early life, but not in a simple way. We describe some of the challenges and opportunities to extend our understanding of the complexity of gender development. Throughout, we consider the kinds of questions Gottesman would likely have asked and emphasize his influence on our work.