There exist various schools of thought concerning gender identity theories. Some contend that gender identity is solely predicated upon biological makeup, while others integrate our evolving comprehension of ourselves and the surrounding environment. Gender identity transcends any singular theory; it is influenced by biology, society, environment, rituals, and expected behaviors. Thus, comprehending the formation of gender identity necessitates an understanding and amalgamation of multiple theories to foster healthy attitudes towards gender and self-definition.

Cognitive Theory of Gender Development

One cognitive theory of early gender development was posited by Lawrence Kohlberg in 1966. Kohlberg introduced a stage theory of gender development, suggesting that a child’s understanding of gender evolves through stages, becoming progressively more intricate (Cognition and gender development, 2016). The initial stage, gender identity, involves a child recognizing their own gender and discerning the genders of others. Subsequently, in stage two, around the age of four, children grasp gender stability, understanding that gender remains constant, primarily influenced by external characteristics such as hair length or clothing types. Finally, around age seven, children attain gender constancy, comprehending that gender transcends outward appearances (Cognition and gender development, 2016).

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Biological Approach to Gender Identity

Contrarily, the biological approach to gender identity posits that gender is determined by hormones and chromosomes, negating a distinction between sex and gender as gender behavior is produced by biological sex (McLeod, 2016). Unlike the cognitive theory, which emphasizes the role of understanding in shaping gender perceptions, the biological approach asserts that interpretations of sex are dictated by chromosomes and hormone levels.

Application to Mariah’s Gender Development

My daughter Mariah’s gender development aligns closely with Kohlberg’s cognitive theory of early gender development. At the age of two, Mariah recognized her own gender and understood her parents’ genders. By age four, she comprehended the permanence of her gender based on her anatomy and identified genders based on external attributes. By age eight, Mariah recognized that appearance does not dictate gender and understood the freedom of personal choice in gender expression.

Alternatively, Mariah’s gender identity development could be explained by the biological approach. Mariah exhibited sensitivity, nurturance, and maternal instincts from a young age, displaying preferences for nurturing play activities traditionally associated with femininity. This aligns with the evolutionary biological approach, suggesting that gender roles are inherited instincts passed down through generations (McLeod, 2016).

Conclusion

In conclusion, both cognitive and biological theories of gender identity offer valid insights into the formation of gender identity. A comprehensive understanding of gender identity formation requires consideration of self-awareness, societal influences, and evolutionary instincts.

References

Cognition and gender development. (2016). OpenLearn. Retrieved June 16, 2016, from http://www.open.edu/openlearn/body-mind/childhood-youth/childhood-and-youthstudies/childhood/cognition-and-gender-development

McLeod, S. (2016). Biological Theories of Gender | Simply Psychology. Simplypsychology.org. Retrieved June 16, 2016, from http://www.simplypsychology.org/genderbiology.html

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