Final answer:
The cognitive development theory of gender suggests that 'gender expression' is how people communicate their gender through various means that are not directly linked to their 'gender identity'. It encompasses societal norms and individual behaviors that are often learned from an early age. The theory also recognizes the complex and fluid nature of gender, as articulated by theorists like Judith Butler, and challenges binary gender categories.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cognitive development theory of gender posits that gender expression is how people communicate their gender through clothes, interests, and language, which may be unrelated to their biological sex or gender identity. This manifests in the ways individuals speak and behave, often conforming to, or challenging, societal norms and expectations.
Judith Butler, a notable philosopher, termed this 'performative' aspect of gender, suggesting that gender is not an innate quality but a set of behaviors and performances that align with societal expectations. Although society typically expects people to perform the role of the gender they were assigned at birth, in reality, everyone's expression of gender is unique and can change over time.
Gender roles and stereotypes are learned from an early age and continue to evolve. These roles are heavily influenced by cultural practices and societal pressures. For instance, behaviors like riding a motorcycle may be coded as masculine, but such associations arise from socially constructed gender stereotypes. It's crucial to distinguish between gender stereotypes and an individual's personal gender identity.
While stereotypes often dictate what is considered masculine or feminine, gender identity is a deeply held internal perception of oneself, which can include male, female, both, neither, or any other identity regardless of the sex assigned at birth.
Academic research also takes note of the complexities of gender and includes considerations of non-binary and intersex individuals, recognizing that gender categories are not as clear-cut as once believed. The discussion also extends to the impact of geography and social institutions on shaping gender identities and expressions. Gender is, therefore, an intricate part of human identity and social interaction, with linguistic and cultural factors playing significant roles in its expression and perception.