Understanding LGBTQ+ Terminology
Navigating the world of LGBTQ+ terminology can be overwhelming, especially for parents who want to support their children effectively. Understanding these terms is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
General Terms
LGBTQ+: This acronym stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, and others. The “+” includes other sexual orientations and gender identities not specifically covered by the acronym.
Sexual Orientation: This refers to a person’s physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction to another person. Examples include heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, and asexual.
Gender Identity: This is a person’s internal understanding of their own gender, whether that is male, female, a blend of both, or neither. This can be different from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Gender Expression: This is the external display of one’s gender, through a combination of dress, demeanor, social behavior, and other factors, generally measured on scales of masculinity and femininity.
Sexual Orientations
Lesbian: A woman who is attracted to other women.
Gay: A person who is attracted to members of the same sex. Often used to describe men, but can be used for anyone.
Bisexual: A person who is attracted to both men and women.
Pansexual: A person who is attracted to others regardless of their gender identity.
Asexual: A person who experiences little or no sexual attraction to others.
Demisexual: A person who only experiences sexual attraction after forming a strong emotional connection with someone.
Queer: An umbrella term that can refer to anyone who is not heterosexual or cisgender. Some people use it as a positive, inclusive term, while others may find it offensive.
Gender Identities
Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Cisgender: A term for people whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth.
Nonbinary: A gender identity that doesn’t fit within the traditional binary of male and female. Nonbinary people may identify as both genders, neither, or a different gender altogether.
Genderqueer: Similar to nonbinary, this term is used by some people who reject traditional gender distinctions.
Agender: A person who does not identify with any gender.
Bigender: A person who identifies with two distinct genders.
Genderfluid: A person whose gender identity changes over time.
Other Important Terms
Two-Spirit: A term used by some Indigenous cultures to describe a person who embodies both masculine and feminine qualities.
Intersex: A person born with physical sex characteristics that don’t fit typical definitions of male or female.
Gender Dysphoria: The distress a person feels due to a mismatch between their gender identity and their sex assigned at birth.
Coming Out: The process of revealing one’s sexual orientation or gender identity to others.
Ally: A person who supports and stands up for the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ people.
Heteronormativity: The assumption that heterosexuality is the norm, which can marginalize LGBTQ+ people.
Homophobia: Fear, hatred, or prejudice against people who are or are perceived to be gay or lesbian.
Transphobia: Fear, hatred, or prejudice against transgender people.
Biphobia: Fear, hatred, or prejudice against bisexual people.
Misgendering: Referring to someone using a word, especially a pronoun or form of address, that does not correctly reflect the gender with which they identify.
Additional Resources
For further reading and more comprehensive lists, you can refer to:
- GLAAD Glossary of Terms: GLAAD
- Psych Central Glossary of LGBTQIA+ Terms: Psych Central
- Stonewall List of LGBTQ+ Terms: Stonewall
Understanding these terms is a crucial step in supporting your LGBTQ+ child. By familiarizing yourself with this terminology, you can create a more inclusive and accepting environment for your child to thrive.
