Psychological Androgyny

Abstract

Androgyny represents a combination of personality characteristics traditionally associated with men (masculine) and those associated with women (feminine). This critical review provides an overview of basic assumptions, measures, research topics, and results of research in the androgyny literature. In particular, research on developmental perspectives emphasizes the importance of focusing upon how individuals systematically maintain and modify their perceptions and experiences as men and women over the life span. The impact of client and practitioner femininity and masculinity upon the counseling process remains poorly understood. Researchers and practitioners alike should recognize the complexity of sex-role-related phenomena, including the importance of situational factors and the role of individual differences in accounting for sex role behavior and adjustment.