The Psychology of the Gender/Sex Binary

The gender/sex binary refers to the belief that gender is binary and determined by biological sex. This belief system is widespread in modern Western cultures despite evidence that it does not accurately portray the complexities of gender and sex. This talk explores how the gender/sex binary is maintained and why people may be motivated to do so. By further distinguishing between the reasons that those who defend the gender/sex binary voice and the actual reasons for negative reactions to disruptions to the gender/sex binary, the talk highlights the importance of going beyond the discourse and examining the psychological factors underlying the defense and maintenance of the gender/sex binary.