OUTLINE
This theory states that sex and gender are linked, fixed, and determined at birth. This is determined by biological factors such as chromosomes and hormones.
Up to 6 weeks after fertilization, the fetus' sex organs are called gonads. At 6 weeks these will develop into testes if testosterone is present, but will develop into ovaries if the hormone is not present.
CRITICISMS
1 - The theory ignores the role of nurture
- Gender behaviour may also be learnt, as the sexes are socialized differently. For example, girls are complimented on their appearance whilst boys are discouraged from crying.
2 - Gender and sex are not always linked
- This can be seen across cultures. In countries such as Korea, men are seen as 'feminine' by western standards.
- Sex and gender are not always the same, transgender people have a gender identity which is the binary opposite to their sex.
3 - Gender is not fixed
- People's gender identity can change as they age. Although someone may be a tomboy when they are younger, they may become more feminine when they are older.
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