Androgyny

Psychological androgyny is a concept that was introduced by SL Bem in 1974. He argues against the traditionally held view that feminine and masculine characteristics are mutually exclusive (for example, the belief that a man can not take on a feminine characteristic such as nurturing without 'losing' his masculinity). In fact, research has shown time and time again that there a far fewer differences between men and women than there are similarities (in intellectual, emotional and physical terms). Bem suggests the feminine and the masculine are two separate dimensions, which both men and women can draw on. And it is likely that someone with strong feminine characteristics will also have strong masculine characteristics.

How can this be? We tend to think this is less to do with levels of progesterone and testosterone than with a strong sense of self identity - which allows an individual to explore different aspects of themselves and means they are not afraid of 'being themselves' or speaking for themselves. Weak femininity and masculinity tend to relate much more to conformity and stereotype, lack of real self-confidence, the use of manipulation to control others... and certainly, fear of difference, rejection of 'the other'.

Psychological androgyny opens up for all of us the possibility that we can develop ourselves, for example, as both co-operative in the feminine dimension and assertive in the masculine dimension. We can chose to combine the best of both - we are more than the sum of our hormones... Is this what they mean when they say we want it all? These are our favourite characteristics - let us know if you disagree:

Confident	Sensitive
Assertive	Co-operative
Ambitious	Reflective
Articulate	Empathetic
Focused	Aware
Courageous	Nurturing
Rational	Creative