Gender identity is a core part of who a person is. Understanding what it means — and how it differs from related concepts — is important for building a more inclusive and respectful world.
What is gender identity?
Gender identity is a person’s internal sense of being a man, a woman, both, neither, or something else entirely. It is how individuals understand themselves in relation to gender.
This sense of self may align with the sex they were assigned at birth, or it may differ. There is no single way to experience gender identity — it is deeply personal.
Key terms
Cisgender: A person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, someone assigned male at birth who identifies as a man.
Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. This is an umbrella term that includes many different experiences.
Nonbinary: An umbrella term for gender identities that are not exclusively male or female. Some nonbinary people identify as a mix of genders, as neither, or as a different gender altogether.
Genderfluid: A gender identity that changes over time. Some people’s sense of gender shifts between different points on the spectrum.
Gender identity and sex
It is important to distinguish between gender identity and sex:
- Sex is typically assigned at birth based on physical characteristics like chromosomes, hormones, and genitalia.
- Gender identity is the internal sense of self.
These are separate. A person’s gender identity does not automatically determine their gender expression, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of who they are.
How do people know their gender identity?
There is no single way that people come to understand their gender identity. Some people have a clear sense from early childhood. Others may take years to understand or may continue to explore throughout their lives.
For some, identifying as transgender brings relief and clarity. For others, identifying as nonbinary or genderfluid feels more accurate. There is no right or wrong way to understand one’s gender.
The importance of recognition
Being recognized and respected in one’s gender identity matters. When transgender and nonbinary people are affirmed — through use of correct names, pronouns, and recognition of their gender — they experience better mental health outcomes.
Conversely, being misgendered or having one’s identity dismissed can cause significant distress. This is why basic respect — using the names and pronouns people ask for — is so important.
Common misconceptions
Myth: Gender identity is a choice
A person’s gender identity is not a choice. Just as cisgender people did not choose to be cisgender, transgender people did not choose to be transgender. It is simply who they are.
Myth: Gender identity is based on stereotypes
Gender identity is about internal sense of self, not about conforming to stereotypes about how men or women should look or behave. A transgender woman is a woman regardless of her style or preferences.
Myth: Children cannot know their gender identity
Research shows that children can have a sense of their gender identity from a young age. While some children explore and change their understanding over time, dismissing their feelings is harmful.
Myth: Nonbinary is just a phase
Nonbinary is a legitimate gender identity, not a phase or a trendy label. Many people identify as nonbinary and have done so across cultures and throughout history.
Supporting someone
If someone shares their gender identity with you:
- Listen and believe them
- Ask what name and pronouns they use
- Use the name and pronouns they provide
- Respect their privacy — do not share without permission
- Educate yourself rather than asking them to educate you
- Apologize briefly if you make mistakes, then move on
Conclusion
Understanding gender identity is a foundation for creating a more respectful and inclusive world. It starts with recognizing that gender is more complex than the binary categories we were taught, and that each person’s experience is valid.
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