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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Gender and Gender Identity?

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The difference between gender and gender identity lies in how they are defined and experienced by individuals:

  • Gender: This is a social and cultural construct that refers to the expectations, norms, and roles associated with being male, female, or non-binary in a particular society. It encompasses the way people express themselves and their identities, as well as the way they are perceived by others based on their appearance, behavior, and other characteristics.
  • Gender Identity: This is a person's internal and individual experience of their gender, which may not necessarily align with their sex assigned at birth, the expectations of their culture, or their external appearance. Gender identity is not outwardly visible to others and is deeply personal. It can manifest as a feeling of being male, female, neither, both, or anything along the gender spectrum.

In summary, gender is a social construct that involves the roles and expectations associated with being male, female, or non-binary, while gender identity is a person's internal sense of self and their gender. These two concepts are distinct but related, and they can differ for each individual.

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  • What is the Difference Between Gender and Gender Identity?
  • Comparative Table: Gender vs Gender Identity

    • Comparative Table: Gender vs Gender Identity

    Here is a table that highlights the differences between gender and gender identity:

    Feature Gender Gender Identity
    Definition Gender refers to the biological classification of an individual, typically determined by their reproductive system (male or female). Gender identity refers to an individual's personal sense of their own gender, which may or may not correspond to their biological sex. It can be influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.
    Nature Gender is a biological characteristic determined by genetic factors. Gender identity is a personal and internal experience that may vary over time and can be influenced by various factors.
    Expression Gender is typically expressed through an individual's biological sex (male or female). Gender identity can be expressed through various means, such as clothing, behaviors, and personal preferences.
    Spectrum Gender is generally viewed as a binary concept (male or female). Gender identity exists on a spectrum, with numerous possibilities beyond the binary categories of male and female.

    In summary, gender refers to an individual's biological classification, while gender identity refers to their personal and internal sense of self. Gender expression is the way an individual communicates their gender identity.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.