Sex gender identity and mental toughness

Sex differences or gender differences have been investigated in educational research for quite some considerable time; however the distinction between the two is often unclear. Research in sex differences in mental toughness is scant and does not address the relationship between sex, gender identity, and mental toughness. Sex differences were found in masculine and feminine traits in accordance with stereotypical perceptions; girls identified more closely with feminine traits whilst boys identified more closely with masculine traits. All the sub-components of mental toughness were entered into a series of regression analyses to examine whether sex or gender identity were better predictors of scores on these constructs. Parents and significant others cultivate masculinity and femininity by encouraging children to behave in ways and develop interests that are perceived as appropriate for the child's sex. Sex-role beliefs evolve into sex-role stereotypes when particular behaviours are applied to all males and females within a culture.