THE CONSTRUCTION OF GENDER - AN ANALYSIS OF MENS TALK ON GENDER

The construction of gender and gender interactions is examined through the discourse of men's only groups. Two discourses are identified: Gender as Social Norm and Gender as Natural. These discourse can be seen, through rhetorical strategies, to construct gender in ways that are problematic for women. Of particular concern is the finding that the discourses and explanations used to construct gender generally are the same as those used to explain, and justify, gender aggression. This finding and some of it's implications are discussed.