Beyond the Binary: A Look at Gender Identity and Sexuality
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Harris, Sydney
Roberge, Kaia
Vietz, Hailey
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2018-04-20
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Title
Beyond the Binary: A Look at Gender Identity and Sexuality
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Abstract
<p id="x-x-x-docs-internal-guid-3f003d71-cb93-dd4c-31a2-7c14be7f20dd">Individuals’ expressions of self are not binary, yet our society thinks of two opposite and complementary categories of humans--male and female. In reality, the expression of gender is fluid and varied. Further, a societal norm of compulsory heterosexuality veils the diversity in sexual attraction found in humans. We explore what makes up a person’s identity and how gender expression can be linked to sexuality. By doing so we hope to show people that gender and sexuality are fluid and that there is no “proper” combination of the two. Researchers have created charts and spectrums to represent the fluidity of gender and sexuality. These visuals help us better understand the many variations beyond the binaries, however, they are not comprehensive of all expressions of gender and sexuality. It is also important to note that gender and sexuality are dynamic and they may change throughout an individual’s lifetime. By recognizing this, people can better understand and accept their nonconforming identities.