Many people use the terms "gender" and "sex" interchangeably. However, they have distinct meanings. Individuals who work with a gender dysphoria therapist work to understand the differences, explore the relationship between sex and gender, and learn to integrate with their gender identity.
What is Sex? The easiest way to differentiate sex and gender is to consider sex as a set of biological attributes. Humans and animals have different attributes based on many factors. These include their number of chromosomes, gene expression, reproductive anatomy, hormone production and function and more. Typically, sex is categorized as either male or female. But it's more complex than that male/female binary. Several factors determine sex and living beings express attributes in many ways. For example, intersex people are born with characteristics that don't fall purely under the umbrella of male or female. What is Gender? We live in a time when people are more comfortable living their true selves than ever. However, many people still don't understand how gender differs from sex. Gender refers to the social constructs surrounding behaviors, expressions and identities. Think of it as the defined norms of what a woman or man should be. For example, the idea that all females should like the color pink and traditionally feminine activities over the idea that men should be tough and rugged. Gender constructs influence how people look at themselves, affecting how they believe they should act. It also reflects the distribution of power and resources in modern society. Outdated gender norms still plague the contemporary world, but people can explore new gender identities. Contrary to what some might think, gender identity is not confirmed to be binary. It's not static, either. It lives in a continuum, and people can change over their lifetimes. If you're struggling with your gender identity, it's important to seek help from a gender dysphoria therapist. Understanding the difference between sex and gender is the first step in living your authentic self. With the right care, you can learn to express your gender identity however you choose, living life to the fullest. Read a similar article about counseling for postpartum depression here at this page.
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AuthorAlester Brown writes about physiotherapy. She advises people on health care, online therapy, anxiety discussion groups & depression message boards. ArchivesCategories |