Gender Sensitivity

• Sex vs. Gender

– sex is biologically determined, whereas gender
is culturally determined.
 Gender Sensitivity: Definition
• Gender sensitivity is the awareness and
insight into the state of the other sex, with
reference to historical roots of sexist
stereotyping, discrimination and violence.
• Men and women are different, therefore
their experiences, needs, issues and
priorities are different
 Objectives
• To reduce barriers in developing personal
and economic success created by sexism

• To generate respect for individuals

regardless of sex.
 FACTS
• Sexism creates bias
• It exists both among
men and among
women.
• It does not respect
individuals according
to their aspirations,
potentials or abilities.
Issues of Gender Sensitivity
Gender Roles
 Gender Roles
• 1. Productive – comprises the work done by
both women and men for payment in cash or kind
• 2. Reproductive – comprises the childbearing
responsibilities and domestic tasks required to
guarantee the maintenance and wellbeing of
household members. It includes not only
biological reproduction but also the care and
maintenance of the persons who comprise the
household.
 Gender Roles
• 3. Community management role –
comprises activities undertaken at the
community level to contribute to the
development or political organization of the
community. It is usually voluntary, unpaid
work.
 The Filipina
• Society Preference for Boys 

• The female sex has traditionally been

percieved as inferior to men.

• In several areas of the world, new boys are

a cause of celebration but girls are
considered as a financial burden.
 The Filipina
• Women have the traditional
role as mothers and
housekeepers, helpers,
onlookers, care providers and
carriers… While Men are
depicted as decision-makers,
businessmen and doctors.