First, physical evidence supports the differences--not just of ideas--but of scientific fundamental similarities and differences between male and female. Many of these traits can be influenced by family or society, but they are mostly innate. Femininity or masculinity is defined by the physical and chemical environment that influences the biological construct of ones existence. For instance, when a baby is born, it's either male or female, judging by the outward appearance. However, in the future, "It's a boy!" yet he may end up feeling like a female if not properly shown direction on how to actualize masculine abilities and generally keep testosterone flow pumping at a normal, balanced rate. This is a different question though. Simply put, masculinity is primarily the effect of testosterone on the brain, while femininity is the effect of estrogen. These chemicals balance the difference between the biological male or female. Here are some traits often associated with the influences thereof--
MASCULINITY: Physical -- thick-skin; thicker and often darker hair; longer and thicker muscle fibers; larger bone structure; deep voice; inclination toward utilization of only the left hemisphere of the brain, which controls logic, deductive reasoning, and mathematical as well as mechanical skills (this isn't to say men don't or can't use the other side, simply men are not naturally inclined to do so)
General Traits - With a common role as a Provider; Strength; Discipline; Endurance; Courage; Pride; Logic; Leadership; Confidence; Boldness; Fierceness; Toughness; Firmness; with a focus on activity Some traits such as excelling at sports, being abusive, fighting, Wrestling, being mean, having massive exploding muscles, or beating women are associated with the term "macho," which is not at all what makes a man "masculine."
FEMININITY: Physical -- soft-skin; thinner and often lighter bodily hair; smaller muscle fibers; smaller bone structure; high voice; utilization of both hemispheres of the brain at the same time, with a higher propensity to use the right hemisphere, which controls emotions, creativity, musical and artistic abilities. General Traits - With a common role as a Nurturer; Beauty; Tenderness; Emotional; Sensitivity; Awareness; Empathy; Shyness; Quietness; Humility; Care; Concern; Discernment; with a focus on relational development and relationshipsMany men are afraid to adopt some of these traits for fear of losing their pride; however, these traits can often aid a man in being a good father or husband.
Ideas about femininity and masculinity are constructed through a combination of societal norms, cultural beliefs, historical context, and individual experiences. These ideas are often reinforced through media representations, socialization, and gender roles within communities, leading to the development of specific traits and behaviors associated with each gender. It is important to recognize that these constructs are fluid and can vary across different cultures and time periods.
The continuum of masculinity-femininity refers to the range of characteristics and behaviors typically associated with masculinity on one end and femininity on the other. This spectrum acknowledges that individuals may express a combination of traits from both ends, with many falling somewhere in between the traditional definitions of masculinity and femininity. It emphasizes the fluidity and diversity of gender expression.
The association of blue with males and pink with females is a relatively modern cultural construct that emerged in the 20th century. Blue was often associated with the calm and serene qualities attributed to masculinity, while pink was linked to the delicate and nurturing qualities associated with femininity. These associations are not universal and can vary across different cultures and time periods.
Gender roles stereotype refers to the societal expectations and norms about how individuals should behave based on their gender. These stereotypes often enforce traditional and rigid ideas about masculinity and femininity, which can limit individuals' expression and opportunities. Challenging and breaking down these stereotypes is important for promoting gender equality and allowing individuals to express themselves authentically.
Gender can influence personality traits due to societal expectations and cultural norms associated with femininity and masculinity. These expectations can impact how individuals express themselves, their interests, and their behavior. However, personality is complex and influenced by a variety of factors beyond just gender.
Gender can influence color preference due to societal norms and cultural associations. For example, pink is often associated with femininity and blue with masculinity. However, individual preferences may still vary regardless of gender.
Femininity = graceful masculinity = strong -apex
· How do gender and sex contribute to the concepts and constructions of masculinity and femininity?
The concepts of masculinity and femininity that influence perceptions are called gender roles. These roles are socially constructed and define behaviors, attributes, and responsibilities expected of individuals based on their sex. Gender roles can vary across cultures and can impact gender identity and expression.
Ingrid Gottfries has written: 'Dimensions of masculinity-femininity related to other personality variables' -- subject(s): Femininity, Masculinity
The continuum of masculinity-femininity refers to the range of characteristics and behaviors typically associated with masculinity on one end and femininity on the other. This spectrum acknowledges that individuals may express a combination of traits from both ends, with many falling somewhere in between the traditional definitions of masculinity and femininity. It emphasizes the fluidity and diversity of gender expression.
Femininity is defined as girly, soft, weak and mainly associated with the female race. Masculinity is defined as manly, tough, rugged and is mainly associated with the male race.
A moustache is traditionally associated with masculinity, but it can be worn by individuals of any gender. It is a personal choice and does not necessarily denote femininity or masculinity.
In "Pygmalion," traditional attributes associated with masculinity and femininity are highlighted through the characters of Henry Higgins and Eliza Doolittle. Higgins embodies masculinity with his assertiveness, rationality, and independence, while Eliza initially embodies traditional feminine qualities like passivity, emotional sensitivity, and dependence on others. In contrast, "Wide Sargasso Sea" challenges traditional gender roles by portraying Antoinette as a complex character who defies stereotypical feminine attributes and is not easily defined by traditional standards of femininity or masculinity. Antoinette's character blurs the lines between masculinity and femininity, highlighting the fluidity of gender roles in the novel.
men are portrayed as strong, cruel and horrible and women and portrayed as weak and useless
Gender refers to characteristics assigned to masculinity or femininity. Feminism is the movement to bring about gender equality.
The social construction of masculinity and femininity within a culture is termed gender roles. These roles dictate behaviors, expectations, and norms that are associated with being male or female in society. Gender roles can vary between cultures and change over time.
Thomas Nicholas Grant has written: 'A study of masculinity-femininity in creative male adolescents and their parents' -- subject(s): Creative ability, Teenage boys, Masculinity, Parent and child