Module 2. Theorethical Concepts of Gender - FSN Network Portal

Mainstreaming Gender into Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Programs
Module 2: Theoretical Concepts of Gender
Lesson 6: Gender Concepts (1): Sex, Gender and Gender Mainstreaming
Sex
Definitions of Sex and Gender
Handout 6.1.1
Sex indicates the biological/physical differences between men and women,
based on our sexual and reproductive functions, which we are born with; for
instance women can give birth and breastfeed and men produce sperm. Sex
is universal and is generally unchangeable. The terms ‘male’ and ‘female’ are
used to describe the sex of an individual.
Gender
Gender indicates the socially-created differences between men and women
and changes in societies, cultures and even families over time. It refers to the
economic, social and cultural attributes and opportunities associated with
being male or female. Societies create and assign gender attributes, roles and
relationships to girls and boys, women and men, and there is often
considerable social pressure to conform to these behavioral norms and
expectations. For example, in many societies women are expected to be
subordinate to men. In some societies, however, women are dominant in
decision making. In other societies it is expected that women and men will
participate equally in decision-making.
A Training Manual for Water Professionals developed collaboratively by PROTOS and SNV, 01/02/2007
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