5 credits

Gender has been the focus of many stereotypes developed over time; but how much does the biological sex of an individual actually influence one's behavior, development, or emotions? Students in this course are introduced to theories and research on gender role expectations and their influence on the psychosocial developmental experience of women, men, and children. Students apply current gender research to understanding achievement, work, relationships, sexuality, violence, and physical health and illness. They also engage in readings and assignments that emphasize the responses of women and men to life stresses, women as clients in psychotherapy, and the increasing role of gender research in the mental health professions.