I don't often think of gender identity as a function of
             formative experiences in my life. I learned how to walk, how to talk, how
             to play the piano, and how to play football, but I have always been a male,
             progressing from boy to man. Some would say that gender identity formation
             is completely a function of socialization - that my identity as a man is
             completely determined by the forces of my family's expectations, and those
             of the society in which I matured. But I believe that while much of my
             gender identity is a socialization function, equally powerful is the
             genetically programmed information in my body, and the presence of
             testosterone, as opposed to progesterone and estrogen, that make me the man
             My experiences were varied in regard to the events which formed my
             gender identity. My family was small, and since my dad worked most of the
             time, my family socialization was with my mom, and my two sisters. I find
             that I am much more prone to communication than many of my male companions,
             which is said to be a more female trait. I also have developed a deep
             understanding of the role of emotions, and the process of emotional
             development. This also is said to be a predominantly female trait.
             However, I have never confused my position in the world as a male, nor have
             I ever pondered the benefits of being female. I am a male of my species,
             Growing up, I was awkward in my relationships to other guys my age,
             not having any of them to relate to in my home. Looking back I see that I
             had more, closer female friends than male friends. When the other kids on
             the block were joining cub scouts, and little league baseball, my dad
             didn't have time, to make the commitment to get me to and from events. So I
             went to Campfire Girls outings with my mom and sisters. While that made it
             difficult to relate to other boys my age, I still have no doubt that I am a
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