Sex imbalances and gender issues : addressing the linkages in development planning

Quantitative analysis of sex-disaggregated data is the first step: it is used to indicate areas in which in-depth qualitative sociological analysis is warranted. The qualitative analysis uses a process called social mapping, i.e., analysis of sex imbalances, as indicated in the quantitative data, to identify specific cultural and political norms and institutions that affect gender roles. These two analytic processes are illustrated in case studies from Cote d"Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and the Philippines. The report includes a discussion of gender concepts and definitions currently used by USAID and other development agencies, as well as a bibliography. A complementary report, "Sex and Gender -- What"s the difference?" (PN-ABW-836) provides a step-by-step procedure for planning a specific development intervention.