Gender Identity
Gender identity is an individual’s deeply felt internal experience of gender, which may be different from the sex assigned to them at birth. It is an ingrained sense of being male, female, or another gender, and it may not necessarily align with societal expectations or the physical characteristics related to the sex assigned at birth. Gender identity is considered a fundamental aspect of a person’s identity and may be different from their gender expression, which is how they outwardly express their gender through behaviour, clothing, hairstyles, mannerisms, etc.
For many, gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth, a
nd they identify as either male or female. These individuals are often described as cisgender. However, some individuals may experience their gender identity to be different from the sex assigned to them at birth.ย
For example, a person assigned female at birth may identify as male, and vice versa. Others may identify as non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, or any other term that represents a gender identity outside the binary format of male or female.
It is important to note that gender identity is separate from sexual orientation. Sexual orientation is about the gender to which a person is attracted romantically, sexually, or emotionally. Gender identity, on the other hand, is about an individual’s internal sense of self and how they personally identify in terms of gender.
Gender identity is also different from gender expression. As, gender expression is the way in which one presents themself to the world in a context of their gender. For example, wearing a dress is assumed to be a “feminine” gender expression. Likewise, wearing a tuxedo is considered a “masculine” gender expression.
Such gender associations are culturally defined and vary across time and culture. One’s gender expression does not necessarily align with their gender identity. Diverse gender expressions, much like diverse gender identities, are not indications of a mental disorder.
It is essential to approach discussions around gender identity and mental health with sensitivity and understanding. Avoid stigmatising language and recognise the importance of an inclusive space for everyone. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, seeking support from mental health professionals or LGBTQIA+ organisations can be beneficial.
Gender Identity Disorders
Throughout research and social observations, the most prominently identified gender related disorder remains gender dysphoria. Gender dysphoria is defined as the marked incongruence between their experienced or expressed gender and the one they were assigned at birth, lasting for a minimum of 6 months. It was previously termed as gender identity disorder (GID).
The criteria for this are as follows:
- A marked incongruence between one’s experienced gender and primary and/or secondary sex characteristics.
- A strong desire to get rid of one’s primary and/or secondary sex characteristics because of a significant difference with one’s experienced/expressed gender.
- A strong desire to acquire the primary and/or secondary sex characteristics of the other gender
- A strong desire to be of and be treated as the other gender or some alternative gender different from one’s assigned gender.
- A firm belief that one has the typical feelings and reactions of the other gender or some alternative gender different from one’s assigned gender.
The condition must also be associated with clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
Some people who are transgender may experience gender dysphoria often in childhood, some people may not experience it until after puberty or much later.
Transgender and gender-diverse individuals may experience higher levels of mental health challenges than the general population. Which can be attributed to various factors, including societal discrimination, lack of understanding or acceptance, and the challenges associated with navigating a world that may not be affirming of their gender identity.
For transgender individuals, mental health concerns may include anxiety, depression and a higher risk of suicidal ideation compared to the general population. Social support, gender-affirming care, and a supportive environment are crucial factors that can positively impact the mental health and well-being of transgender and gender-diverse individuals.
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