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| |    Gender Differences: How They Arise by Dr. Benjamin Spock reviewed and revised by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. Many biological differences between the genders are obvious. For example, males tend to be larger, their sexual maturation in puberty starts later and ends later, and on average their mature bodies are more muscular. Recent research into the brain's structure shows that there are differences between male and female brains. Many other differences are apparent, which seem to be biological in origin. For example, boys have higher rates of bed-wetting, speech delay, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Still other differences seem more likely to be colored, largely, by the different ways boys and girls are raised in our society. This page outlines some of those differences and their implications: Different behaviors praised People are apt to show admiration for the accomplishments of little boys and for the cuteness of little girls. Girlish clothes are designed to make an adult say, "How pretty you look!" This is complimentary in one sense, but it also gives girls a sense that they are primarily appreciated for their appearance rather than their achievements. Different ideas about play Often children's books show boys building things or going on adventures while girls watch the boys or play with dolls. Girls are commonly warned not to climb up trees or onto garage roofs because they are not strong enough or will get hurt more easily. Boys are given toy cars, construction sets, sporting equipment, and doctor kits. Girls are given dolls, sewing sets, nurse kits, and articles of adornment. There's nothing wrong with any of these gifts in themselves, especially if the child asks for them. The harm comes when adults consistently impose these distinctions, implying that females (or males) are good only at a limited number of occupations. Different chores Boys are assigned chores in the garage, in the basement, or on the lawn; girls work inside the house. Of course housework is important to the welfare of the whole family, so it should be accorded dignity, but when it is done only by females in a society that gives so much prestige to males, it will be considered menial by both sexes. Different expectations Boys often cover up their own feelings of inadequacy or inferiority by taunting girls, saying that they are not able to run fast or throw a ball and so can't be on the team. Some parents and teachers tell girls that, by their nature, they won't be able to study advanced mathematics or physics or function as engineers. By adolescence, many girls have become convinced that they will be inferior to men in such capabilities as abstract reasoning, complex planning skills, and emotional control. The acceptance of these aspersions in itself destroys self-confidence and may bring about the very impairment of abilities that are alleged (by many men and some women) to be inborn in females. Implications Children develop best when their individual strengths and interests are nurtured. Gender stereotypes, as described above, are harmful to children because they do not allow parents and teachers to recognize and support these individual strengths. As these stereotypes fall away, more and more children--both boys and girls--have a chance to shine in their own lights. 
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