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the cognitive development theory of gender states that how people communicate their gender through clothes, interests, and language which is unrelated to their gender identity is called their gender________

User Dan Kanze
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Final answer:

Gender expression is the external manifestation of one's gender identity, shaped by sociocultural norms and performed through language, clothing, and interests.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cognitive development theory of gender states that the ways in which individuals express their gender through clothes, interests, and language, which are not biological but are performed through language and other cultural practices, particularly centered on the body, is called their gender expression. This concept suggests that gender is not inherently tied to one's sex assigned at birth but is instead a form of performance that incorporates societal norms and cultural practices.

Children learn from a young age distinct gender roles through the process of socialization, where societal values, beliefs, and attitudes dictate certain behaviors. This education in gender norms continues throughout life as people perform and reinforce these expectations in their daily interactions. Over time, individual expressions and deviations from these norms can contribute to a change in the very notion of gender itself. Therefore, gender identity, which refers to a person's deeply held internal perception of his or her gender, may or may not align with the gender they were assigned at birth and the traditional roles associated with it.

User Shenal Silva
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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.

User Stevemac
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