Gender Expression
Hear this word Gender Expression
Image description: A group of people dress and express themselves in ways they enjoy
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What Is It?
Gender expression is the external appearance of one's gender identity, usually expressed through behavior, clothing, body characteristics, or voice, and which may or may not conform to socially defined behaviors and characteristics typically associated with being being masculine, feminine, or a mix of both.
An Example
Finley wears headbands with sparkles and skirts every day at school. For her, dressing this way is part of her gender expression.
What to Know
Every glossary word connects to different parts of the Sexuality Wheel. Explore the information below to learn more.
- Gender expression can include any part of how a person chooses to look, act, or be.
- Gender expression does not tell us what a person’s gender Identity might be; only a person can tell you that.
- Some people may find it difficult to express their gender in the way that feels best to them. This is why it is important to be supportive of all the ways a person may be expressing their gender.
Think about
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Does a person’s gender expression tell us what their gender is?
No. Only a person can tell you their gender.
What questions do you have about gender expression?
To learn more about gender expression, explore websites, books, and other resources in the Resource Hub or visit other parts of Your Sexual Health Toolkit like our online game, Our Stories, Our Journeys: A Sexual Health Game!