Sex Is A Biological Concept - 1197 Words

Sex is a biological concept, determined on the basis of individuals primary sex characteristics. Gender, on the other hand, refers to the meanings, values, and characteristics that people ascribe to different sexes. 1 Our sex is the manuscript that guides our parents on how to raise us. Our sex determines what is expected from us in our future roles in society. It defines what basic character traits we are looked upon to exhibit. Society says that sex determines our gender. It is ingrained in our care takers to nurture and raise us according to what has been deemed appropriate by our sex. How do we go about developing our biological make-up and forming a gender identity? Two words, gender roles. There are many factors in the†¦show more content†¦As children grow and develop, the gender stereotypes they are exposed to at home are reinforced by other elements of their environment and are thus perpetuated throughout childhood. 4 Gender stereotypes are further perpetuated within advertisements. Fisher Price, a popular children’s toy manufacturer, markets to children based on gender. In a popular commercial, Fisher Price markets a blue Power Wheels ® Ford F-1505. In the advertisement, two little boys drive a battery operated truck. In the background, a father figure watches on as the boys trek through the gravely backyard. Phrases such as, â€Å"Handles ruts, grass, mud and more!† and â€Å"2.5 mph speed-lock unlock for 5mph speed† , flash across the screen as rock music plays. A final phrase states â€Å"Roomy trunk space for ‘stuff’ †. As this phase appears the little boy places a toy jack-hammer in the trunk. The commercial is reminiscent of adult truck advertisements, which are predominately geared towards industrial men. The commercial spreads a message that trucks and rock roll music are masculine. In a similar advertisement, Fisher Price markets a Power Whee ls ® Barbieâ„ ¢ Jammin’ Jeep ® Wrangler6. The toy jeep is a bright pink color. There are two little girls in the toy vehicle. In the background a mother figure walks more closely behind than in the former ad. Insinuating the little girls need closer watch.