Final answer:
Studies have found that genetically male children surgically altered to appear as females still showed a tendency to prefer male-associated play activities. Gender roles influencing play are complex, with social expectations playing a significant role in children's gender identity formation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Studies of genetically male children who were surgically altered to appear as females found that they tended to prefer male play activities. Gender roles are often reinforced through playtimes, with boys provided with more active toys and girls given toys that encourage nurturing and social behaviors. However, when children do not conform to these roles, they can face criticism or marginalization.
Those studies have indicated that despite surgical alteration, these children often gravitate towards toys and activities traditionally associated with their genetic sex. It emphasizes that children are active agents in applying normative gender expectations, and nonconformity can lead to negative social sanctions. This underscores the complexities involved in gender identity and socialization, beyond just biological or surgical modifications.