This book examines how gender is constructed and maintained as a social institution. Dr. Judith Lorber, a prominent sociologist, analyzes the ways in which gender is not a natural biological fact but a social process that shapes our bodies, identities, and social interactions. The book draws on a range of sociological theories and empirical evidence to demonstrate how gender is performed and reinforced through everyday practices, institutions, and cultural norms. It challenges traditional understandings of sex and gender, arguing for a more fluid and socially constructed view.

The book is regarded as a foundational text in gender studies, offering a comprehensive sociological perspective on the construction of gender. Scholars often cite Lorber's work for its clear articulation of gender as a social institution that shapes individuals and society. The text is frequently used in university courses to introduce students to critical theories of gender and its pervasive influence. Its arguments continue to be relevant for understanding contemporary debates about gender identity and social inequality.