How does one create the self? How do we form as individuals? Whether a person is male or female, white or black, rich or poor, tall or short, pretty or ugly, fat or skinny, the most important factor is the development of the self. The self refers to the unique set of traits, behaviors, and attitudes that distinguishes one person from another (Newman 283). To distinguish between oneself from others, one must be able to recognize their unique traits and characteristics. One must be able to differentiate between ones own physical appearance and anothers. There are many components such as gender, race, ethnicity, and social class, which shape and influence our values, beliefs, and impression of life. Understanding the difference between sex and gender allows one to grow into their own masculinity and femininity. Recognizing the history of ones past in regard to their ethnic backgrounds and struggle will shape the development on ones self. Having the luxury of money and power will affect the self and the way that one appreciates the value of the dollar or lack thereof. One of the most important factors may be ones physical features which will eventually influence ones self-confidence and affect the self as a whole. Once an individual has acknowledged the traits of their self, theyre in control of either maintaining their self, or changing their self to satisfy their standards.A baby is born and the doctor looks at the proud parents and says three simple words: Its a boy, or Its a girl! Before a newborn child can even take his or her first breath of life, he or she is distinguished and characterized by its gender. One important factor to know is the difference between gender and sex. Sex is typically used to refer to a persons biological maleness and femaleness. Gender designates psychological, social, and cultural aspects of maleness and femaleness (Kessler & McKenna 289). The differentiation between sex and gender are important because i...
