Biologists
Sex is mainly about the difference in sex cells (gametes). Males typically produce small, moving sperm. Females produce larger, non-moving eggs.
The terms sex and gender are often used interchangeably. This can lead to confusion because sex and gender refer to different concepts. This is not a political statement, it's a linguistic one.
What is sex?
Sex is a complex concept. Different scientific fields describe it in various ways. The unifying factor, however, is that your sex is closely linked with your biology and anatomy.
Geneticists
Sex starts at the cell level. It comes from how sex chromosomes are expressed when an egg is fertilised.
Psychologists
Sex is a biological category based on several factors. These include genes, chromosomes, hormones, and physical traits like genitals.
Most people are classified as either male or female.
However, some people are born with a mix of male and female biological traits. These individuals are known as intersex.
What is gender?
Gender is social, psychological, cultural, and behavioural. It refers to
- Roles we play in society
- Characteristics perceived as masculine or feminine (which can vary greatly by culture)
- Personal identity
Common gender labels include man, woman, and non-binary, though many other terms exist based on cultural and personal experiences.
Gender is often described as a spectrum.
Sex is not gender
Generally speaking, phrases like I am a man or I am a woman are understood without the need for clarification. There are scenarios, however, where the sex/gender distinction is crucial.
Physical Health Context
A doctor checking for testicular cancer is primarily concerned with the patient's sex organs, not their gender identity.
Mental Health Context
A psychologist discussing relationship dynamics might focus on the patient's gender rather than their anatomy.
Legal Context
In law and policy, the distinction between sex and gender can have significant implications. For instance, anti-discrimination laws may protect individuals based on sex, gender identity, or both.
Common Misconceptions
There are only 2 genders
This statement is incorrect. Many people identify outside the binary of male and female.
There are only 2 sexes
While sex is typically categorized as male or female, it's important to acknowledge the existence of intersex individuals.
Sports needs gender testing
Concerns about fairness in sports should usually be directed towards to the athletes' sex, as this primarily influences physical performance, not gender.
Recap
Gender is social, cultural, and behavioural.
Sex refers to a person’s anatomy.