Sex Differences in Cognitive Functioning: Evidence, Determinants, Implications

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine the evidence for sex differences in cognitive functioning and to review and evaluate evidence for hormonal, genetic, neuro-anatomical, and cultural determinants of such differences. Inadequacies in the evidence for sex differences, such as underreporting of negative findings, failure to measure effect size, small sample sizes, etc., are noted. It is likely that sex hormones influence the organization and functioning of the brain. Sex differences in brain organization and functioning are discussed. In summary, the existence of sex differences in cognitive functioning is clear, but further research is needed to elucidate the determinants of these differences.