What does "gender identity" refer to?

Gender identity refers to the internal sense of being male, female, a blend of both, neither, or anywhere along the gender spectrum. This concept encompasses how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves. It is important to note that gender identity may or may not align with the biological sex assigned at birth.

The distinction is crucial because it emphasizes that gender identity is a deeply personal and individual experience, influenced by a variety of factors including cultural, social, and personal experiences. Understanding this definition helps recognize the diverse experiences people have and the importance of validating and respecting their self-identified gender.

Factors such as societal norms and stereotypes may influence an individual's expression of their gender identity, but they do not define it. Instead, gender identity is fundamentally about how a person understands their own gender, which may differ from societal expectations or constructs.