Identify one genetic factor and one social factor that contribute towards sex differences in physical health. Describe evidence to support the influence of each factor that you identify. Overall, what conclusions can you draw about the relative contributions of biological and social factors to sex disparities in health?
What will be an ideal response?
Students may discuss genetic or hormonal influences as biological factors. They may discuss accidents, risky health behaviors such as smoking, alcohol use, and diet, and physical activity as social factors. Example response may proceed as follows:
Sex hormones represent one biological contributor to sex disparities in health. Research shows that testosterone, which exists in higher levels among men, is associated with higher levels of bad cholesterol and risks of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore testosterone suppresses the body’s immune system and leads to less robust immune responses among men. Conversely, estrogen, which is higher among women on average, is associated with lower blood pressure and decreased risks for cardiovascular disease. Thus the sex hormones that are prevalent among men and women contributes to differences in physical health.
One social factor that helps explain sex differences in health is gender role norms that influence dieting behavior. Healthier foods, such as fruits and vegetables which tend to predict better cardiovascular health, are stereotyped as feminine. Conversely, unhealthy, high fat foods are stereotyped as more masculine. These norms may contribute to man’s resistance to adopt diets that may combat risks to their physical health, such as cardiovascular disease.
In sum, research reveals both biological and social mechanisms that uniquely contribute to the sex disparity in physical health.
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