Topic > Gender and sexuality: the social constructionist approach

Sex, sexuality and gender have been discussed throughout history. Often the most popular debate is “nature versus nurture.” However, as time passes, new concepts are produced. Social constructionism is the belief system that sexualities, which change over time, are historically and socially constructed. The history of sex, sexuality and gender has different meanings depending on times and places. Examining certain identities, understandings, and categories helps dissect the power relations that underlie them. Understanding the meaning of the story demonstrates that there is an associated moral and political vision. To tie in, essentialism comes from our bodies and promotes the idea that there is something intrinsic to us as individuals. The social constructionist approach is part of the basis for understanding how sexuality is a social construct. To discuss the topic of gender and sexuality, this essay will use the social constructionist approach. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Social constructionism comes from the essentialist context, so to truly dive in, you need to be well-versed in essentialism. The conceptualization of sex is an overwhelming force that is fundamental to who we are. Essentialism comes from the body. For example our psyche, hormones and genes. The idea that there is something innate in who we are describes essentialism. The concept of normative sexuality is found in human nature and one's sexual expression must be expressed to prevent neurosis or perversions. “Social constructionism, which covers a broad range of approaches that emphasize that the social, the cultural, and the historical, are crucial to the creation of our genders, sexualities, and sexual identifications” (Kinsman, 2017). Social constructionism itself is part of the foundation of sexuality. Historically, sexuality has been considered something biological. Sex, sexuality and gender have been and continue to be seen as a product of nature. However, sexuality is a product of society. Through politics, culture and the media one's sexuality is governed by society. The idea that one's sexuality is biological is simply part of the little “t” truths. Sexuality is constantly evolving, therefore fluid. Kinsman talks about “common sense” in media over time as it is a crucial part of social constructs and practices of hegemony, consent, and coercion. Kinsman further argues that “…sexuality is socially and historically created and is not determined by our hormones or genes” (Kinsman 2017). Social constructionism deeply analyzes how society has shaped sexuality throughout history. As Fausto-Sterling states, “without human sociality, human sexuality cannot develop” (Fausto-Sterling, 2000). He further goes on to explain, “The truths about human sexuality created by scholars in general and biologists in particular are a component of the political, social, and moral struggles over our cultures and economies” (Fausto-Sterling, 2000). The social constructionist approach to sexuality is evident as it forms the core of queer theory. “And if views on sex and sexuality are already rooted in our philosophical concepts of how matter forms in bodies, the matter of bodies cannot constitute a neutral, pre-existing ground from which to understand the origin of sexual difference” (Fausto-Sterling, 2000) ). Queer theory aims to resist the categorization of people, especially in binary terms, such as male versus female or gay versus straight. “We must actively engage in culling.