Gender and sexuality are often confused with each other due to the variety of contexts in which the word “sex” is used. While biological sex refers to the male or female anatomy we are born with, sexuality has a much deeper meaning.
Gender
The world’s population is divided into males and females, with some individuals having an intersex gender. Gender is determined by our sex organs, not by our sexual orientation or mindset. When registering for schools, clubs, or jobs, we are usually required to reveal our gender. Sociologists and experts argue that gender is not solely about our internal and external sex organs, but also about the roles, behaviors, and activities expected of us by society. Cultural influences play a significant role in shaping our behaviors based on our biological sex.
Sexuality
Sexual orientation, or how we feel emotionally and romantically towards members of a particular sex, is categorized into heterosexuality, homosexuality, or bisexuality. Heterosexuals, those attracted to the opposite sex, are the most dominant in the population, but there are also homosexuals and bisexuals. The LGBT community consists of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender people who do not identify as heterosexuals.
Key Takeaways
- Gender is determined by our internal and external sex organs and is often reflected in societal roles and expectations.
- Sexuality refers to our emotional and romantic predisposition towards members of a particular sex, which can be heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual.
- Gender represents one’s sexual identity, while sexuality represents one’s predisposition towards members of a sex.
