Final answer:
Gender identity is influenced by both biological predispositions and socio-cultural factors. Individual choice and ethnic heritage may play a role, but the interplay between genetics and social influences is crucial in the development of gender identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The strongest influences in developing our gender identity come from a combination of factors, including biological predisposition, socioeconomic factors, and the cultural environment in which we are raised. While individual choice and ethnic heritage may play roles in shaping our identities, research and theory in psychology as well as sociology suggest that our personal development is a complex interplay between our genetic makeup and the sociocultural influences that we are exposed to throughout our lives.
For instance, the American Psychological Association (APA) acknowledges that there is no single explanation for why people are transgender, indicating that diverse experiences and expressions are influenced by both biological factors, like genetics and prenatal hormone levels, and social and cultural factors, such as childhood experiences. Furthermore, sociocultural factors also deeply influence issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Geography and place-based gender roles also play a significant part in shaping how one identifies.