Final answer:
Sex differences in early childhood between girls and boys are often evident in physical attributes and play preferences, influenced by social constructs and societal gender roles. Children internalize gender roles through socialization, and parents contribute to this by treating sons and daughters differently. These practices lead to gender inequality, which is why sociologists distinguish between sex and gender.
Step-by-step explanation:
As we enter early childhood, some general sex differences become evident between girls and boys. Examples of these differences include physical attributes and preferences in play. Boys may show more physical aggression and interest in rough-and-tumble play or prefer toys like cars and action figures, while girls might lean towards social play, nurturing dolls, and engaging in activities like dress-up. Social constructs largely influence these differences.
Children's play is shaped by the gender roles prevalent in society, reinforced by family, peers, and media. Toys and activities during childhood are often "gendered," and approval or disapproval of certain playtime choices aids the socialization process, reinforcing what is culturally appropriate for each gender. Parents might unconsciously treat sons and daughters differently, reinforcing traditional gender roles, which children typically internalize and reflect in their behavior.
Gender inequality surfaces from the stratification that results from these narrowly prescribed gender roles. Sociologists emphasize the distinction between sex and gender to acknowledge the impact of societal constructs on behavior and the inclusivity of various gender identities. The differentiation between sex and gender is essential in modern society to understand the social construction of roles and to mitigate sexist attitudes and systemic inequality.