This chapter considers possible ways that peer relations, group identity, and dispositional preferences are interrelated and contribute to children’s gender development. The author advances an integrative theoretical model of gender development that bridges complementary theories by linking sex-related dispositions and physical characteristics to the process of assimilation within same-gender peer groups. Research suggests some (but not all) children have strong behavioral dispositions (temperaments and intense interests) and physical characteristics that are either highly compatible or highly contradictory with culturally valued in-group prototypes (e.g., boys strongly inclined toward physical activities vs. dress-up play, respectively). These children may either become same-gender role models or disidentify with the gender in-group, respectively. In contrast, children without strong dispositions may be most amenable to developing a broad repertoire of interests when provided opportunities and encouragement. Implications of this model for the development and well-being of children as well as future directions for research are discussed.
