Final answer:
Hormones do influence the development of gonads, with androgens directing the formation of testes and estradiol and progesterone directing the development of ovaries.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that hormones influence the type of gonads an individual will develop. During fetal development, the presence of certain hormones will determine whether an embryo will develop male or female gonads—testes or ovaries, respectively. The testes produce androgens, particularly testosterone, which are crucial for male sexual development. In contrast, the ovaries produce estradiol and progesterone, essential for female sexual development. These hormones are responsible for triggering the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the production of gametes.