According to the social constructionist approach to sexual orientation,Group of answer choicesthere seem to be biologically based, hormonal differences between lesbian and heterosexual women.most women develop a fairly rigid sexual orientation during childhood, and this orientation remains stable throughout their lives.the principles of learning theory—especially punishment and rewards—explain whether women become heterosexual or lesbian.most U.S. women initially think of themselves as being heterosexual, but some review their experiences and decide that they are lesbian or bisexual.

Lisa M. Diamond developed a theory called the “dynamical systems approach.” According to Dr. Diamond’s approach to sexual identity,Group of answer choicesnonheterosexual women notice their sexual feelings, and they reinterpret their sexual experiences, to create their sexual identity.prenatal hormonal levels are the most important determinant of sexual orientation.genetic factors are the most important determinant of sexual orientation.almost all lesbians knew that they were not heterosexual, beginning at puberty.

The idea children learn gender from their environment comes fromGroup of answer choicespsychodynamic theory.humanistic theory.social learning theory.Gestalt theory.

Queer theory is a critical sociological perspective that problematizes the manner in which people have been taught to think about sexual orientation. By calling their discipline “queer,” these scholars are rejecting the effects of labeling; instead, they embrace the word “queer” to describe a perspective that comes from outside the dominant heteronormative discourses. Queer theorists reject the dominant gender schema and the dichotomization of sexual orientations into two mutually exclusive outcomes, homosexual or heterosexual. Rather, the perspective highlights the need for a more flexible and fluid conceptualization of sexuality — one that allows for change, negotiation, and freedom. The current schema used to classify individuals as either “heterosexual” or “homosexual” pits one orientation against the other. This mirrors other oppressive schemas in our culture, especially those surrounding gender and race (Black versus White, male versus female).

The research on the psychological adjustment of lesbian women shows that lesbian women:Group of answer choicesare slightly lower than heterosexual women in their self-esteem.are slightly higher than heterosexual women on measures of depression.and heterosexual women, in general, are similar in their ability to make decisions easily.and heterosexual women, in general, are similar in their psychological adjustment.

What is the belief that the lived experiences of women and men differ as a result of biological differences?Group of answer choicesgender theorysocial constructionismtranssexualityessentialism