TERMINOLOGY AND SOCIAL RELEVANCE IN PSYCHOLOGICAL-RESEARCH ON GENDER

While the feminization of psychology seems remote, socially relevant research is relatively achievable. In the present paper, terminology is initially reviewed, and distinctions are drawn between concepts of sex, gender, and sexuality. Traditional areas of psychological activity in relation to gender differences, gender identity, gender stereotypes, gender and sexuality are noted, and issues of social relevance are highlighted. Possibilities for socially relevant research include investigation of power differences, the subjective experience of oppression, objectification of women's bodies, and the pattern of connections and disconnections between sex, gender, sexuality, and position on feminism.