Clarifying the Concept of Androgyny: Implications for Therapy

Abstract

Logical inconsistencies between Bern's theoretical and empirical definitions of androgyny are discussed. It is pointed out that one can be high in both masculine and feminine traits but that these can be expressed in inappropriate, inflexible, and dysfunctional ways. Case materials illustrative of this situation are presented. Androgyny defined as an equal balance of masculinity and femininity is portrayed on an initial, dualistic notion of androgyny, which is a precursor to a more advanced, hybrid androgynous state. Some issues involved in conceptualizing androgyny in hybrid terms are delineated, along with requisite considerations for the clinician in utilizing this model of androgyny.

Androgyny: A Goal for Counseling?

“…Androgyny has been seen as the sex-role model of well-being (Kaplan, 1979). As Bem (1974) stated, "perhaps the androgynous person will come to define a more human standard of psychological health" (p. 162).…”

“…Other perspectives have since followed, including emphases on: personality traits (Spence & Helmreich, 1979b), socially appropriate behaviors and competencies (Kelly & Worell, 1977;Orlofsky, 1981), cognitive processing (Bem, 1981), and characteristics transcending familiar feminine/masculine distinctions (Harrington & Andersen, 1981;Hefner, Rebecca, & Oleshansky, 1975;Kaplan, 1979). These areas of focus are not necessarily contradictory.…”

“…A basic assumption about androgyny that has been widely accepted by researchers and practitioners is that it is a highly desirable, even ideal state of being. Androgyny has been seen as the sex-role model of well-being (Kaplan, 1979). As Bem (1974) stated, "perhaps the androgynous person will come to define a more human standard of psychological health" (p. 162).…”

Mobilité de sexe et réussite scolaire au collégial

“…Par la suite, l'androgynie sera définie comme la fusion des sexes et non comme leur simple concomitance (Kaplan, 1979). L'androgyne est considéré comme un être à la fois mâle et femelle qui produit un être nouveau, une sorte d'hybridation du masculin et du féminin dans laquelle s'effacent les spécificités liées au sexe.…”

A Feminist Approach to Family Therapy

“…Feminism sees as the ideal for the individual the ability to respond to changing situations with whatever behavior seems appropriate, regardless of the stereotyped expectations for either sex. This idea of the androgynous personality reflects a recent shift away from dualistic notions of masculine‐feminine personality types (21). In helping women develop in line with an androgynous model, feminist therapy has encouraged women not only to become aware of the oppressiveness of traditional roles but also to gain experiences that enhance their self‐esteem as they try new behaviors as part of gaining self‐definition.…”