Abstract
Purpose of Review: The goal of this paper is to give current understanding of non-binary/genderqueer identities, non-binary mental health trends and identity development, unique experiences of non-binary individuals, and recommendations for clinicians and researchers. Recent Findings: About one third of individuals who identify as transgender primarily identify as non-binary. Recent studies found that non-binary people are at higher risk for suicide, experience more psychological distress, and experience higher levels of depression and anxiety. New studies on identity development of non-binary individuals provide explicit and fluid understandings of gender identity development outside of male/female, man/woman, and boy/girl. Summary: Overall, little research is focused on non-binary individuals even though non-binary people make up a significant portion of the transgender community and experience even greater negative mental health risks. Non-binary people face several challenges in a society that is structured around binary gender identities. We encourage psychologists to challenge the dominant binary assumption about gender and create environments that include and affirm non-binary individuals.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 116-120 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Current Sexual Health Reports |
Volume | 9 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 2017 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Gender identity
- Genderqueer
- Non-binary
- Transgender
- Transgender mental health
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Urology