To determine someone’s gender as male, several factors can be considered. From a biological standpoint, the presence of male chromosomes, specifically XY, typically identifies an individual as male. This is often accompanied by male primary and secondary sexual characteristics, such as the presence of male genitalia and features developed during puberty like increased muscle mass, facial hair, and a deeper voice.
Furthermore, an individual’s gender can also be influenced by their gender identity, which is how they perceive themselves and wish to be recognized by others. This understanding of gender can be separate from or align with their biological sex. Therefore, if a person identifies as male and prefers to be recognized as such, this, too, affirms their status as a man.
In summary, biological characteristics, combined with personal identification as male, can together confirm someone as a man, according to both traditional and contemporary understandings of gender.
