Week 14 - Gender Identity and Expression Flashcards

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to gender identity and expression.

What is the difference between gender identity, physical sex, gender expression, gender norms, gender perceptions, and sexual orientation?

Gender Identity: An individual’s personal sense of their gender, which may or may not align with their physical sex. Physical Sex: The biological attributes (e.g., chromosomes, hormones, reproductive organs) typically categorized as male or female. Gender Expression: How an individual outwardly expresses their gender through appearance, behavior, and communication. Gender Norms: Socially accepted behaviors and roles associated with a particular gender. Gender Perceptions: How society perceives and interprets an individual’s gender expression or identity. Sexual Orientation: The emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to individuals of a particular gender or genders.

Define the following gender identity terms: Cisgender, Transgender, Non-binary, Gender Creative, Two-Spirit, and Gender Diversity.

Cisgender: A person whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Non-binary: A person whose gender identity does not fit within the traditional binary of male or female. Gender Creative: A person who challenges or expresses their gender in ways that do not conform to traditional gender norms. Two-Spirit: A term used by some Indigenous cultures to describe a person who embodies both masculine and feminine qualities or occupies a gender role outside of the binary. Gender Diversity: A broad term that encompasses a range of gender identities and expressions beyond the male/female binary.

What is gender-affirming care?

Gender-affirming care refers to healthcare practices that respect and support a person’s gender identity. It includes using correct pronouns, providing gender-appropriate medical treatment (such as hormone therapy or surgery), and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for individuals of all gender identities.

How can you use gender-inclusive language?

Gender-inclusive language avoids assumptions about gender and uses terms that are respectful of all gender identities. This includes using gender-neutral terms like "they/them" for individuals whose pronouns are unknown, avoiding gendered job titles (e.g., using "firefighter" instead of "fireman"), and asking for and using people’s preferred pronouns.

What should you do if you misgender someone?

If you misgender someone, immediately apologize, correct yourself, and continue the conversation respectfully. Acknowledge the mistake without making it a big deal, and strive to use the correct pronouns moving forward. It’s important to be accountable and respectful in your language.