Definition of sex typing

The term "sex typing" refers to the societal expectation and classification of individuals based solely on their biological sex. This concept emerged in the mid-twentieth century as a result of psychologist John Money's theory that individuals' personalities and behaviors could be determined by their anatomical sex. Money coined the term "sex typed" to describe individuals whose values, interests, and careers aligned with traditional gender roles assigned to their sex. The concept of sex typing suggests that individuals who deviate from these expectations are abnormal, leading to social and psychological pressure to conform to societal norms associated with their biological sex. While the concept of sex typing has been widely criticized for its strict adherence to binary gender roles and limitations on individuals' experiences and opportunities, it remains an influential idea in discussions surrounding gender identity and expression. Today, some experts are arguing that the term "sex typing" has become outdated and should be replaced by more nuanced ways of thinking about gender and its relationship to biological sex.