Gender refers to the social and cultural roles, behaviors, expectations, and identities that society considers appropriate for individuals based on their sex. It encompasses the wide range of characteristics, expressions, and roles that society assigns to males, females, and diverse gender identities.

Sex refers to the biological and physiological differences that categorize individuals as male, female, or intersex, based on their reproductive anatomy, chromosomes, hormone levels, and other physical attributes.

Gender identity is a deeply held sense of being male, female, or another gender, regardless of the sex assigned at birth. It is an individual’s internal understanding and experience of their own gender, which may or may not align with the expectations of society.

Gender expression refers to the way individuals outwardly manifest their gender through their behavior, clothing, hairstyle, mannerisms, and other personal characteristics. It is closely linked to gender identity but can vary greatly between individuals.

Gender roles are the social and cultural expectations and norms that determine how individuals of a particular gender should behave, think, and interact within a given society. These roles are often defined by stereotypes and can be restrictive, influencing behavior and opportunities.

Gender stereotypes are generalized beliefs or assumptions that assign certain characteristics, roles, and behaviors to individuals based on their gender. They reinforce societal expectations and can perpetuate inequalities and discrimination.

Cisgender refers to individuals whose gender identity matches the sex assigned to them at birth. For example, someone who is assigned female at birth and identifies as a woman is a cisgender person.

Transgender refers to individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex assigned to them at birth. For example, someone who is assigned male at birth but identifies as a woman is a transgender person.

Non-binary is an umbrella term for individuals who do not exclusively identify as male or female. They may identify as both genders, neither gender, or as a different gender altogether. Non-binary people may prefer gender-neutral pronouns like “they/them.”