Question

How much of a role do you think biology and the environment play on the development of our gender identity?

Answer 1

The question of biology and the environment playing a role in gender identity development represents the classic nature versus nurture debate. I would say that both factors have a compelling role. On one hand, certain physiological predispositions that are passed on as genes through our parents create the overall framework in which gender identity develops. Now, the nature and extent of the development is dependent on the stimulation that is received from one’s environment. Taking a general approach, I was with all physiological characteristics of the female sex. This forms an understanding of myself as a “girl”. This had led to people labelling me a “girl” and therefore affected their interactions with me. For instance, my parents gave me clothed me with skirts and gave me dolls to play with. The social interactions have thus enhanced my perception of being a “girl”.