Which biological theory of gender role formation emphasizes the role of testosterone in brain development?

The theory of psychosexual differentiation is grounded in biological perspectives and explains how variations in hormone levels, particularly testosterone, during critical periods of brain development can influence the formation of gender roles. This theory posits that the presence of testosterone during specific developmental windows can shape not just physical traits but also behaviors and preferences that align with traditional gender roles.

For example, higher levels of testosterone during prenatal development are linked to the organization of brain structures that influence aggression, spatial awareness, and even interests that may align with stereotypical male behaviors. As such, the role of hormones like testosterone is crucial in understanding how biological factors can predispose individuals toward certain gendered behaviors and roles.

The other theories address different mechanisms regarding gender role formation. Social learning theory focuses on the influence of observation and modeling, while gender schema theory emphasizes cognitive processes and cultural influences. Biological essentialism argues for the inherent nature of gender differences but does not specifically link the differentiation process to testosterone's involvement in brain development as clearly as the theory of psychosexual differentiation does.