PSYC 3480 Chapter 4: Psych of Women - Chapter 4
Document Summary
Girls are not born sadder than boys as they age, gender difference in depression increases. Distinguishing between males and females: from the moment babies are born they are surrounded by cues that signify gender, they are given gendered names and outfitted in colour coded clothing, diapers and blankets. Infants as young as 3-4 months of age can tell the difference between pictures of adult females vs. males: young children who learn to identify females and males early, show more gender-typical preferences for toys and peers. Preschool and elementary girls and boys fairly similar in motor skills. Childhood through adolescence gender differences in motor skills favouring boys become more pronounced. What accounts for this change in gender differences regarding motor skills: result of environmental factors, boys receive more opportunities, encouragement, and support for participating in sports. During puberty, hormonal changes increase muscle mass for boys and fat for girls.
