Self-Identity and gender differences

Abstract

After reviewing the origins of the concepts of identity and Self, departing from historical psychoanalytical proposals, special focus is placed on the complex process of identity construction in both genders, including core gender identity and gender role identity. Different ways of approaching sexual orientation and sexual behavior are examined, introducing the concept of sexual fluidity and studying the importance of individual variations in those dimensions. The role of others in the process of identity building is analyzed, from the impact of others’ sexuality to the influence of large group processes. Depositation phenomena and mechanisms of transgenerational transmission are debated. In the social context, special attention is paid to the imbrication of violence and sexuality, showing differences between men and women regarding this combination throughout history. Finally, a point is made on how social considerations of the respective value of men and women may have a very real and deleterious impact, much beyond feelings of worthlessness or superiority.