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Purpose of This Module
 To begin the
exploration of sexuality, we need to share an understanding of terms and
basic concepts. In this module, we will:
- Define sex and gender,
gender identity, sexual identity, gender roles, sexual behavior, sexual
intercourse, sexual practices, and sexual orientation
- Explain the impact of the
social and cultural context on sexual behaviors and norms
A common understanding of
key terms is critical for understanding the dynamics involved in providing
client-responsive sexual and reproductive health services and for clarity
in communicating with colleagues.
Sexuality refers to the expression of who we are. It involves
a person’s thoughts, feelings, and sexual expression and relationships,
as well as the biology of the sexual response system.
Sexual health is the ability to enjoy and express one’s
sexuality free from the risks of sexually transmitted infections, unwanted
pregnancy, coercion, violence, and discrimination.
Sex and gender
Terms relating to sex and
gender are at the core of any discussions relating to sexuality. These
terms—which refer to biological or sociocultural definitions of “male,”
“female,” “masculine,” and “feminine”—can
cause considerable confusion and debate. Throughout this minicourse we
will use these terms as follows:
One’s sex
refers to one’s biological characteristics—anatomical
(breasts, vagina; penis, testicles), physiological (menstrual cycle;
spermatogenesis), and genetic (XX; XY)—as a female or as a male.
Gender refers
to what a person, society, or legal system defines as “female”
or “male.” A gender role describes the set of
socially or culturally defined attitudes, behaviors, expectations, and
responsibilities that is considered appropriate for women (feminine)
and men (masculine).
Gender roles may vary according
to culture, class, and ethnicity. For example, in some cultures, being
a man means being strong, dominant, and unemotional, while being a woman
means being sensitive, nurturing, and passive.
One’s gender
identity (also known as sexual identity) refers to the
personal, private conviction each individual has about being “feminine”
or “masculine.”
Our gender identity is at
the core of how we feel about who we are. Some people are biologically
male but internally feel female, and vice versa—these people may
never feel comfortable living as defined by the sex they were born with.
 Feeling
locked into a gender role can limit one’s ability to express oneself:
those who do not conform to their designated role may be subjected to
criticism and attack. However, gender roles are not fixed—they can
change over time as the society changes and as many individuals reject
traditional roles. For example, rejection of traditional gender roles
in some societies has resulted in:
- Girls and women having
access to athletic, educational, and economic opportunities previously
considered “male” fields
- Men taking a more active
role in parenting and household work
- Men being more willing
to express feelings (such as affection, grief, fear)
- Women taking a more active
role in decision making within a relationship
© 2007 EngenderHealth
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