Gender Identity Demystified

What is the difference between sex and gender?

Sex is strictly biological, while gender encompasses biological, cognitive, and social aspects of a human being. Because gender and sex are not the same thing, it is possible for a person’s sex and gender to disagree. When this happens, it can be extremely problematic for the person dealing with this incongruity.

What is gender identity?

Gender identity is the primary aspect of gender. It is how a person sees and feels about him- or herself. For most people, gender identity corresponds with physical sex. For some, the two are not congruent. People whose gender identity and physical sex do not agree are often called transgendered, although each person has his or her own way of identifying.

Does this have anything to do with sexual orientation?

Gender identity and sexual orientation are different concepts in Western culture. Sexual orientation refers to a person’s attractions. Gender identity refers to who a person believes he or she is. Transgendered people can have any sexual orientation.

What is the difference between a transgendered person and a transsexual person?

A transgendered person is a person whose sex and gender do not agree. A transsexual person is a transgendered person who undergoes gender or sex reassignment -- changing the physical body to match the gender identity. Gender reassignment is also known as gender transition and is more commonly known as "sex change."

What is gender diversity?

Gender diversity encompasses all areas of gender. Gender diverse people are often considered those who do not conform to the specific gender norms set out by the culture. Transgendered and transsexual people, as well as others, can be considered gender diverse.

Why is it important to learn about gender identity, gender diversity, and transgendered and transsexual people?

Gender diverse people are all around us. More and more transgendered people are undergoing gender reassignment or are expressing their gender in ways that might be confusing to some. In the past, transgendered people who transitioned quit their jobs and moved away to start over again. Now many are remaining in their neighborhoods and in their employment situations. Understanding gender diversity can make it easier to interact with the public, to work with a gender diverse boss, employee, or coworker, or to handle a gender transition in the workplace.

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