Biological explanations of gender development, including chromosomes and…

The idea

The biological approach argues gender development is driven by genetics and physiology. Chromosomes initially determine sex; typical females have XX and males have XY. The Y chromosome's SRY gene triggers testes development and androgen release. Hormones then direct gender development prenatally and at puberty. Testosterone masculinises the brain, promoting male-typical behaviours. Oestrogen regulates the female reproductive system and influences female-typical behaviours. Oxytocin, produced more in females, facilitates bonding. While supported by case studies like David Reimer, this approach is often criticised for biological reductionism, as it ignores the significant role of socialisation and cognitive processes in shaping gender identity.

What earns the marks

• Identify the role of XX and XY chromosomes in determining typical female and male biological sex.
• Explain the function of the SRY gene on the Y chromosome in triggering male physiological development.
• Describe the role of specific hormones, including testosterone, oestrogen, and oxytocin, in physical and behavioural gender development.
• Evaluate the biological explanation using evidence from atypical sex chromosome patterns or relevant case studies.
• Discuss the limitations of biological reductionism and determinism in explaining complex gender behaviours.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Stating that chromosomes directly cause gender identity.

  Put it right: Explain that chromosomes determine biological sex, which typically aligns with gender identity, but hormones and environment also play crucial roles.

• Claiming only males produce testosterone and only females produce oestrogen.

  Put it right: Clarify that both sexes produce these hormones, but in significantly different quantities and proportions.

• Confusing the roles of oestrogen and oxytocin.

  Put it right: Specify that oestrogen primarily regulates the reproductive system, while oxytocin is heavily involved in bonding and attachment.

Exam tips

• Use the case study of David Reimer to evaluate the biological approach, highlighting how his inability to adapt to a female gender assignment supports the influence of biology.
• When discussing hormones, explicitly link them to behavioural effects, such as testosterone and aggression, rather than just physical changes.
• Contrast the biological approach with cognitive or social learning theories to provide a well-rounded evaluation of gender development.