In the context of Advanced Placement Psychology, the term refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, expressions, and identities of individuals. It encompasses how societal expectations influence perceptions of masculinity and femininity, differentiating it from biological sex, which denotes anatomical and physiological attributes. For example, while someone may be assigned female at birth (biological sex), their adherence to or rejection of culturally defined feminine behaviors and roles reflects their expression of the concept at hand.
Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing various psychological phenomena, including socialization, identity formation, and the development of stereotypes. Recognizing its influence allows for a more nuanced comprehension of behavior and mental processes. Historically, its study has evolved from a focus on inherent differences between groups categorized by sex to a broader examination of the impact of social and cultural factors on individual experiences and self-perception.