gender identity

one’s self-identification as male or female. Although the dominant approach in psychology for many years had been to regard gender identity as residing in individuals, the important influence of societal structures, cultural expectations, and personal interactions in its development is now recognized as well. Significant evidence now exists to support the conceptualization of gender identity as influenced by both environmental and biological factors. See cisgender; gender constancy; transgender. See also gender role.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

precompetition anxiety

increased cognitive and physiological arousal before a competition. Precompetition anxiety may facilitate or inhibit performance, depending on the performer’s perception of readiness or apprehension. See debilitative anxiety; facilitative anxiety.