Times are changing, and so are our perceptions of gender. There is an increasing awareness and understanding of the diverse range of gender identities and expressions that exist. One such identity is that of being gender expansive. Gender expansiveness refers to individuals who do not conform to traditional binary gender roles and may have a fluid or non-binary gender identity.
Let’s delve into what it means to be gender expansive, exploring the unique experiences of both teenagers and adults. Uncover the profound impact this identity has on mental health and gain valuable advice for finding support and guidance for anyone on a journey toward self-acceptance.
What Is Gender Expansiveness?
To understand gender expansiveness, we first need to understand gender itself. Gender is a social construct that refers to the roles, behaviors, and expectations that society has traditionally associated with being male or female. Gender identity, on the other hand, refers to an individual’s personal sense of their own gender.
For most people, their gender identity aligns with the gender they were assigned at birth. However, for gender expansive individuals, their gender identity may not fit neatly into the traditional binary categories of male and female.
Gender expansiveness can take many forms. Some individuals may identify as genderqueer, gender-nonconforming or nonbinary, meaning that they do not identify as completely male or female but rather somewhere in between or outside of these categories.
Others may identify as transgender, meaning that they identify as a gender different from the one assigned to them at birth. Still, other individuals may not identify with any gender at all.
How Gender Expansiveness Can Be Different for Teens and Adults
Discovering and embracing one's gender identity is a journey that knows no age boundaries. However, the way gender expansiveness is expressed can differ between teenagers and adults. During the adolescent years, young people explore various aspects of their identities, including gender, through self-expression and self-discovery.
Teenagers naturally experiment with different forms of self-expression, which may encompass their choice of clothing, music preferences, and activities. For many teens, gender exploration is also an integral part of their journey. It is important to understand that this exploration does not necessarily imply confusion about gender, but rather a genuine desire to examine oneself without the need for strict labels.
Research shows that teenagers who identify as gender expansive often face unique challenges, including a higher risk of mental health issues and discrimination compared to cisgender individuals. While society is slowly becoming more accepting, some teens may still feel isolated and pressured to conform to societal norms. Creating a sense of belonging and acceptance is crucial for their emotional well-being.
Some individuals may not fully express and explore their gender identity until adulthood, which brings a whole new set of concerns. Workplace policies and discrimination can greatly impact the experience of being gender expansive in adulthood. Sadly, many workplaces lack adequate policies to protect gender-expansive individuals, leading to a constant decision of how open to be about their gender identity.
For many adults, the choice not to disclose their gender expansiveness stems from a desire to be recognized for their work rather than their gender identity, or concerns about being perceived as unprofessional. It is important for society to acknowledge and respect individuals regardless of their gender identity, promoting a supportive environment for all.
Mental Health and Gender Expansiveness
Being gender expansive can have a significant impact on emotional well-being. Research indicates that individuals who identify as gender-expansive are at a higher risk for depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. It is important to note that both teenagers and adults in this community may be at a higher risk for having thoughts of suicide.
It's unfortunate that discrimination, lack of acceptance, and internalized stigma contribute to these disparities. However, it's crucial to understand that a strong sense of belonging is essential for one's overall well-being and happiness. It is not unusual for individuals in the gender expansive community to face struggles related to isolation and rejection, but support and understanding from the community can help alleviate these challenges.
Research has consistently shown that gender-affirming interventions, such as hormone therapy and supportive therapy, have a positive impact on mental health outcomes for gender-expansive individuals. It is important to note that transgender and nonbinary participants often find affirmation of their gender identity and support from various sources, including friends, chosen families, therapists or other healthcare providers, religion, and LGBTQ+ spaces. These supportive environments play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and well-being.
Seeking Help and Support
Discovering and accepting your gender identity can be a challenging journey. It involves exploring different expressions of gender and embracing these identities within yourself. This process can often lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, isolation, and even thoughts of suicide. But there is hope.
By seeking support from friends, family, and peers who have had similar experiences, or finding a therapist who understands and respects gender expansive identities, you can create a strong foundation to trust in your own self-worth and sense of belonging. Having a safe space to express yourself without judgment is incredibly beneficial for developing empathy towards yourself and others.
If you're on a journey of exploring your own gender identity, we're here to help. Reach out today and take the first steps towards connecting more deeply with yourself and finding inner harmony sooner rather than later. Our therapists are ready to support you on this transformative path.