Message to Students

We are so glad you have chosen to study Sociology of Gender. Sociology of gender uses the tools of sociology—sociological perspectives, traditional and novel research methods, and expansive theories of gender and sexuality—to explore how gender and dominant gender norms are socially constructed, imposed, enforced, reproduced, challenged, and negotiated.

This textbook will introduce you to the thought leadership, research, and theories of contemporary sociologists—many of whom identify as women, LGBTQIA+, and People of the Global Majority—that are shaping this exciting field of study. This textbook also describes how social movements have influenced theories of gender and how the field of sociology has been responsive to these movements.

We invite you to bring curiosity, intellectual rigor, and self-reflection to your inquiry. As you work through these chapters, you will find sidebar elements to help you understand why sociologists can say that gender is “real but not true,” as well as resources for learning more about topics related to gender and sexuality. Each chapter also includes an opportunity for self-reflection, review, and discussion questions.

Now click the button in the lower right corner labeled “Next →” to turn the page!