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Gender Identity – Importance and Meaning

Updated on: 16th Apr 2024

5 mins read

Gender Identity Definition  

Gender identity, in simpler words, is the self-sense of an individual’s own gender. It can correlate with his or her assigned sex or can vary from it. 

Employers can do much to create a more gender-inclusive and welcoming culture for everyone–and in doing so, they are also enhancing your talent brand.  

This is when a big question arises- how can you do it? 

Well, the first step is awareness! You should have a clear understanding of the concept first before practising it in your workplace.  

Here, we will discover:
  

  • What is Gender Identity? 
  • Types of Gender Identity  
  • Benefits of Fostering an Inclusive Environment for Different Gender Identities

What is Gender Identity? 

Gender identity is a person’s deep perception of—and hence practical sense of being—either male or female, both neither. 

Unlike gender expression, gender identity is how an individual considers their own gender. 

It includes how one thinks of themselves as male, female, or a combination of both characteristics. 

In a critical vein, gender identity does not necessarily correlate with the sex assigned at birth. 

The notion reflects the intricate composite of psychological, emotional, and social factors that shape an individual’s consciousness in categorizing his or her type. It underscores why we must respect gender variety. 

Types of Gender Identity  

  • Agender  

An agender person tends to feel they have no gender. They can be gender-neutral or completely lacking in feeling. For agender individuals, there is a disconnect with the sort of binary gender system. They may express themselves in different ways and for agender people, physical change may or may not be desired to correct gender dysphoria. 

  • Androgyne  

Androgynes seek an amalgam of both feminine and masculine characteristics. To be almost indefinitely gendered is their aim, rather than trying to fit into one category on some so-called spectrum of desires. 

  • Bigender  

Bigender people consider themselves as two different genders. This is a special feature that has not yet been fully studied, although researchers think it might be linked to hormones or genes. Their gender expression can change between these identities, offering a dynamic and flowing experience until one day they are released from the limits of any particular sex category. 

  • Cisgender  

When an organization is made up of cisgender individuals, they generally share a common life experience and perspective. When staff work together in this way, for example on how to implement green design most efficiently with as little impact on production or costs as possible. 

  • Genderfluid  

Genderfluid people experience a liquid and flexible gender identity that may change with time. Their gender expression should be seen by people like songs on different instruments: it can be more masculine, it can be more feminine or it can be neither of the two. Fluidity means that gender is dynamic and allows for many expressions. 

  • Gender Outlaws 

Gender outlaws are individuals who challenge or reject societal norms related to gender. The group comprises a diverse set of people who break conventional sex roles and identify as non-binary, genderqueer or other categories that go beyond what we usually think fits within a binary understanding of gender. 

  • Genderqueer  

As a general classification, genderqueer consists of any gender identity that is non-binary. Those identifying as genderqueer may refuse to accept traditional gender distinctions, and instead take on a range of identities which go far beyond man and woman. This expression offers a place for people who don’t conform to the standard strand, breaking down diversified and mobile transgender fashion and identity. 

Benefits of Fostering an Inclusive Environment for Different Gender Identities  

There are many but here are the top benefits of an inclusive environment for different gender identities:  

  • Improves Diversity 

Creating a fair environment for different gender identities benefits society in the first place by broadening perspectives. 

This diversity injects richness and diversity into discussions, problem-solving and innovation. Individuals with varied gender experiences have existed both longer than anyone can remember and more recently than ever before. 

  • Increases Efficiency  

When individuals with different gender identities feel a sense of belonging and acceptance the companies they work for benefit. The more employees feel respected and valued for who they are, the greater their sense of engagement, job satisfaction and activity and the healthier and more dynamic their social environment. 

  • Enhances Retention  

Organizations or communities that focus on inclusiveness attract a wider range of talents. Persons coming from a gender-diverse background are more likely to pick up work or join organizations that allow them to embrace and enjoy their own identity. Loyalty and commitment are encouraged and thus retention of talent is further ensured– through this inclusiveness. 

  • Builds Positive Image 

By way of diversity in gender identities, a business or community boosts its repute. Supporting inclusivity means entities have to make a conscious campaign towards social progress and equality. This openness of image can win patronage for customers or clients and the general public, helping to turn relationships around and creating opportunities.  

There you go!  

Gender identities should be supported by all of us who are making waves in a positive social climate.

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