What does gender expression refer to?

Gender expression refers to the external manifestations of gender, which can include a range of behaviors, clothing, hairstyles, voice, and mannerisms that are culturally associated with being male, female, or non-binary. This concept focuses on how individuals present their gender to the world and how these presentations align with or diverge from societal expectations.

Understanding that gender expression is outward-facing is crucial for recognizing the diversity of ways people embody their gender identity. It is particularly important in social work, as practitioners must be sensitive to varying expressions of gender and how they impact individuals’ experiences and interactions in society.

The other options do touch upon aspects related to gender but do not capture the essence of gender expression accurately. Social identity relates more to how individuals identify within a group or society, physical features pertain to biological characteristics rather than how gender is expressed, and inner self-concept is more about personal understanding of one’s own gender identity, which can differ from outward expressions.