The Training of Trainers Manual - UNFPA

Day 2
Exercise: Gender, not sex
Objective
To help participants understand the difference between ‘sex’ and
‘gender’
To recognize gender stereotypes
30
minutes
Materials Flip chart, markers, and tape; a flip chart sheet or overhead
transparency on which definitions related to sexual orientation will
be outlined; Handout 6. Sex and Gender
Process
Draw three columns on the paper. Label the first column ‘woman’ and leave the
other two blank.
Also suitable for
all training and
field work
Ask participants to identify personality traits, abilities, and roles (‘attributes’) that
are often associated with women; these may include stereotypes prevalent in the
participants’ communities. Write down their suggestions in the ‘woman’ column.
Next, label the third column ‘man’ and ask participants to again make a list of
personality traits, abilities, and roles that are often associated with men. These may
include stereotypes prevalent in the participants’ communities. Write down their
suggestions in the ‘man’ column.
Ensure that participants provide examples related to reproductive health. Here is an
example.
Girls and young women:
■ Are biologically more susceptible to STIs and HIV
■ Are at greater risk of morbidity and mortality
■ Experience higher rates of sexual violence and coercion
■ Are expected to care for children
■ Are unable to negotiate condom use effectively
Boys and young men:
■ Experience peer pressure to be sexually active
■ Are taught to dominate and control
■ Do not feel comfortable using reproductive health services
■ Tend to avoid responsibility
Section 2. Guidelines for Training of Trainers
67