Influence Of Cognitive Development On Gender Identity

Abstract The influence of cognitive development to a modern comprehension of gender identity is examined. Cognitive theories in the context of human development are assessed and examples are presented to provide empirical support. These theories surround early gender development with aspects concentrated specifically during Middle Childhood to illustrate how gender identity is perceived in children ages 5 -11. The process of normal and abnormal gender identity in Middle Childhood are both examined. The paper concludes with implications for future research. Introduction to Gender Identity The phenomenon of gender identity dates back as early as the 1950’s when Psychologists began examining gender development in children. In 1958, the UCLA Medical Center created the Gender Identity Research Project to study intersex and its effects on gender development and identity. John Hopkins Medical School’s Gender Identity Clinic was created in 1965 for elaborative gender research, suggesting that gender identity is â€Å"relatively fluid† up to a certain age and subject to continuous negotiation (Haraway, 1991). With countless research and studies conducted on this unique topic in human development, various cognitive theories have emerged to justify the evolution of gender identity. In order to further examine gender identity, it is critical to distinguish gender identity from societal terms that do not properly define its true semantic. Gender Identity isShow MoreRelatedNature vs Nurture: Genes vs Environment Essay1285 Words   |  6 Pagesand are usually very identified with the particular gender that we happen to be a member of.† This quote by Andrew Cohen explains partially how gender identity develops, through the conditioning of our environments. The most influential factor of gender development, however, is still a very controversial issue. 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