Embracing Fluidity: Exploring Gender and Identity
I spend a lot of my clinical time working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, so the concept of gender identity comes up a lot. However, the impact of gender identity has emerged in almost every single client I’ve worked with, regardless of their connection to the LGBTQ+ community. My clients explore, experience, and wrestle with concepts of who they are as a mom or dad, what their role is in their friend or family group, and how they are “allowed” or expected to show up in a workplace environment. All of these moments (and more) are influenced by gender identity and the societal, familial, cultural, religious, etc. messages and stories that are taught around the concept of gender.
Gender identity is a deeply personal and multifaceted aspect of human experience, transcending the rigid binary constraints of traditional gender norms or gender roles. As our world evolves, the understanding and acceptance of gender norms and gender identity have gone through cycles of evolution as well. The world is rich in the history of gender and gender expression.
Gender identity exists on a spectrum, encompassing a diverse range of experiences and expressions that defy rigid categorization. For some individuals, their gender identity may align with the sex they were assigned at birth, while for others, it may differ, leading to feelings of dysphoria and dissonance between their internal sense of self and external social expectations. When what you feel is not what society or family tells you is “correct”, it shakes the internal system. “Who am I?” “Can I trust myself and my own inner knowing about myself?” Those are pivotal questions that speak to a core element of identity.
But what is the connection around gender and identity? I’m glad you asked. From the earliest stages of development, individuals begin to form a sense of self that encompasses not only their biological sex but also their internal sense of gender identity—a deeply ingrained understanding of who they are and how they relate to the world around them. This sense of self comes both from internal factors (self-knowledge) and external factors (family, society, culture, etc.). Even while they are still in the womb, the beginning stages of gender influence often begin. From nursery décor to baby shower registrations, the influence of the baby’s sex can be a determining factor. Moving through childhood, it only takes a stroll through the children’s clothing or toy department to see the influence of gender roles on our children. Young boys are offered tool sets, trucks, and sports equipment while young girls are provided kitchen sets, baby dolls, and princess outfits. Moving through to adolescence, we start to see the influence of media- what professions are women shown to have vs men in popular shows and movies? What traits to they exhibit? So I’ll ask, how can there not be a connection between gender and identity? We are bombarded with messages around how we “should” show up in the world from pre-birth onwards through adulthood. What happens when we don’t feel aligned with the societal, familial, or cultural expectation?
Navigating the complexities of gender identity requires courage, resilience, and support. It's about exploring yourself, challenging societal norms and expectations, embracing authenticity, and advocating for inclusivity and acceptance. Whether it is pronoun preferences, clothing choices, career paths, or gender-affirming medical care, everyone’s journey is unique, shaped by their personal experiences, values, and aspirations.
However, gender diversity is not without its challenges, particularly in a world that often seeks to enforce binary gender norms and erase the existence of non-binary and transgender individuals. From discriminatory policies to acts of violence and harassment, many individuals face significant barriers to expressing their true selves and accessing the support and resources they need to thrive.
Embracing gender diversity is not just about tolerance—it's about celebrating the richness and complexity of human experience, fostering empathy, understanding, and respect for the myriad ways in which we express ourselves and navigate the world. We are all unique and deserve to have that uniqueness honored. By honoring and affirming diverse gender identities and challenging rigid gender roles, we create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone can live authentically and freely, without fear of judgment or discrimination.
To schedule an intake appointment or a consultation call, visit the contact page. Embrace life transitions, discover purpose, and navigate change with the support of Emily R Counseling.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. If you require assistance or are experiencing mental health concerns, please seek guidance from a qualified coach or mental health professional.
