What are you if you identify as the opposite gender?

Transgender is the term used to describe someone living as the gender opposite to the one assigned at birth.

How do we define gender?

Gender refers to the characteristics of women, men, girls and boys that are socially constructed. This includes norms, behaviours and roles associated with being a woman, man, girl or boy, as well as relationships with each other. As a social construct, gender varies from society to society and can change over time.

How does gender identity develop?

Gender identity typically develops in stages: Around age two: Children become conscious of the physical differences between boys and girls. Before their third birthday: Most children can easily label themselves as either a boy or a girl. By age four: Most children have a stable sense of their gender identity.

What is meant by gender and why should we study gender?

Gender, it has to be understood, is about a certain performance of identity, and gendered roles and norms are intrinsically woven into and practiced in our daily lives. Gender studies, therefore, is a study of production, reproduction, and resistance to norms that produce inequality between men and women.

What is gender equality and why is it important?

Gender equality prevents violence against women and girls. It’s essential for economic prosperity. Societies that value women and men as equal are safer and healthier. Gender equality is a human right.

Why do you think it is important to study gender and society in college?

All college students should take a gender studies class because it equips them with the understanding and awareness of how gender impacts their daily lives. While the treatment of women in society has significantly improved, there is still much progress to be made.

Do you identify with a gender other than your physical gender?

Many people identify with a gender that differs from their physical sex. Different ideas and feelings towards sex and gender are a natural part of human diversity. There are many different words and labels that people use to describe their sex or gender characteristics and identities.

Do you feel like your body doesn’t reflect your true gender?

Or someone with the physical characteristics of a female would feel her true identity is male. Feeling that your body does not reflect your true gender can cause severe distress, anxiety, and depression. “Dysphoria” is a feeling of dissatisfaction, anxiety, and restlessness.

Why do some people have different ideas about their gender?

Some people also feel that the sex of their body doesn’t fit right and that they would feel more comfortable as the opposite sex. Many people identify with a gender that differs from their physical sex. Different ideas and feelings towards sex and gender are a natural part of human diversity.

How do I know if I’m being discriminated against because of gender?

You can find out more about the diversity of sex and gender by visiting some of the LGBTQI support services and groups. If you’re harassed, judged or made to feel less than normal by someone else because of your gender, then you’re being discriminated against. It’s important to remember that the other person is in the wrong, not you.