Complete the chart by listing seven traits you believe are associated with male or female behavior. Examine the differences of these traits between genders. Identify whether the differences are biological, social, inherent, or learned. Explain why.
Gender Trait
What are the trait differences between genders?
Are the trait differences biological or social? Are the traits inherent or learned? Why?
Aggressiveness
Both genders can display aggressive behavior, but triggers are usually different.
Aggressiveness is an inherent trait because it is an instinctive method for defense and survival.
Competitiveness
Although both genders can display competitive behavior, its perception varies across different social settings.
Competitive behavior in men is often perceived a sign of ambition, strength, and courage. On the other hand, female competitiveness is often perceived as aggression or arrogance. That perception is common in workplace discrimination.
Leadership
Leadership is mainly a male trait, and most women do not develop leadership skills.
The trait is both biological and social. From the biological perspective, men use the logical part of the brain, and that enables men to plan long-term more effectively than women. From the social perspective, groups composed of women often lack a leader and distribute leadership roles among members.
Self-reliance
Both genders can develop self-reliance if they learn from a
Self-reliance is learned in society, and gender differences do not determine its development.
Assertiveness
Assertiveness is not dependent on genders.
Assertiveness is influenced by several other traits and behavioral patterns, so both genders have equal chances for its development.
Affection
Both genders are capable of affectionate behavior. However, because affection is a form of emotional expression, women show it more frequently than men.
Affection is mainly a female trait because of both biological and social factors. From a biological perspective, women are destined to become mothers, so they have more latent capabilities of showing affection. From a social perspective, men can display their emotions
Sensitivity
Although both genders are capable of developing sensitivity and empathy, it is mainly considered a female trait because men rarely display emotional traits.
The trait difference is social because both genders are capable of empathy and sensitivity. However, traditional social paradigms indicate that men should not display their emotions because it is considered a weakness.
