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Human gender development.

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Early testosterone exposure significantly influences gender-related behaviors, identity, and sexual orientation. Socialization processes also play a crucial role in shaping these outcomes over time.

Keywords:
AndrogenAutismAutistic spectrum disorderAutistic traitsChildhood gender role behaviorGenderGender identityGender role behaviorMental rotationSexSexual orientationSpatial abilityTestosterone

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Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Endocrinology
  • Behavioral Neuroscience

Background:

  • Human gender-related behavior and psychology arise from a complex developmental system.
  • Current understanding of this system's elements and interactions remains incomplete.
  • Key factors identified include early testosterone exposure, postnatal socialization, and self-socialization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prenatal and early neonatal influences of testosterone on gender-related psychological and behavioral outcomes.
  • To contextualize hormonal influences within broader socialization processes.
  • To synthesize existing evidence on the interplay between hormones and social factors in gender development.

Main Methods:

  • Review and synthesis of existing scientific literature.
  • Analysis of evidence regarding prenatal and neonatal testosterone exposure.
  • Examination of the role of parental, peer, and self-socialization.

Main Results:

  • Consistent evidence links early testosterone exposure to childhood gender role behavior (e.g., toy preferences), gender identity, and sexual orientation.
  • Hormonal influences on spatial ability and autism spectrum disorder traits are inconsistently reported.
  • Prenatal testosterone exposure in girls impacts external and self-socialization processes, contributing to gender-related outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Early testosterone exposure is a significant factor in shaping gender-related psychological and behavioral development.
  • Socialization influences interact with hormonal factors to shape gender outcomes.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex developmental system underlying human gender.