What is sexual identity?
Sexual identity is the self-image that someone has, regardless of the genitals with which they were born. That’s to say, an individual with male sexual characteristics (a male gender) may feel themselves to be female, some would describe themselves as a “woman in a man’s body.” This individual would have a female gender identity.
People often use different words and terms to describe sexuality. This can create confusion and misunderstanding. For this Spotlight, sexual identity refers to the complex, lifelong process everyone goes through that includes the aspects of sex, gender and orientation. • Sex refers to our physiological characteristics based on chromosomes, hormones and anatomy. A person can be female, male or intersex (having characteristics of both sexes). • Gender refers to our patterns of behaviour that are generally seen to be based on biological sex, and that are usually described under the broad terms of masculinity for males and femininity for females. However, this definition fails to acknowledge the rich diversity of gender expression. Many people have a combination of behaviours that include what may be traditionally categorised as masculine and feminine characteristics; and some people identify their gender as other than their biological sex (transgender).
Related Questions
- Does discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity occur against persons in South Bend?
- Why is it Important for society to be better educated about sexual orientation and gender identity?
- What is gender identity and expression and how does it differ from sex and sexual orientation?
