Nursery World - Terms that create an identity crisis

I am writing with regard to Penny Tassoni's feature 'His and hers' (19 and 26 December) on children's awareness of male and female. I read this article with some confusion over her concepts of 'gender' and 'sex'. In my understanding, sex describes the biological/physical differences between men and women, while gender describes the socio-economic imbalances between the sexes and ideological constructs of male and female roles.

I read this article with some confusion over her concepts of 'gender' and 'sex'. In my understanding, sex describes the biological/physical differences between men and women, while gender describes the socio-economic imbalances between the sexes and ideological constructs of male and female roles.

Ms Tassoni states that children learn first about their 'gender concept'

and that early on they learn about the differences between the genders. Yet at this age, it is the physical differences that children will notice - the differences between sex identity, rather than gender identity.

I was further confused by the 'sex role' concept. Surely this should be 'gender role'? The different roles assigned to men and women are social, rather than biological constructions. It is certain accepted traditional behaviours and divisions of labour between men and women that dictate actions and attitudes.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included