Let’s start by defining some of the terms we’ll be using to discuss sexuality.
Sex
Gender
Gender Identity
Sexuality
When we talk about a person’s sex, we are referring to the physical differences between biological male and female persons. Biological sex is changeable only through surgical options. This is distinct from one's physical anatomy and gender.
Gender refers to the social norms between males and females. In other words, these are behaviors that are accepted and/or expected of each gender by a society. For example, in the United States, it is accepted and sometimes expected for girls to wear dresses. It is not generally accepted nor expected that boys wear dresses.
Gender norms evolve as a society evolves. For example, in the U.S. in the 1920s, it was considered shocking for a woman to wear trousers. Nowadays, it’s common for girls and women to wear pants whenever and wherever they want.
You may have heard the phrase, "I feel like I'm trapped inside the wrong body." Some adolescents perceive themselves differently than their biological sex. This is known as gender identity.
Sexuality is the aspect of one's personality that refers to romantic feelings, thoughts, actions, and attitudes. It is woven into every aspect of human life. It has an effect on one's identity, self-worth, self-esteem, emotions, personality, relationships, and lifestyle.
