Gender norms and stereotypes shape much more of our lives than many people realise. From childhood, we’re often taught there are certain ways men and women are “supposed” to behave, express emotion, dress, communicate, or move through the world. Over time, these expectations can start to feel natural or fixed, even though many of them are socially constructed and shaped by culture, religion, history, and power.
For LGBTQ+ people especially, rigid gender expectations can create shame, confusion, fear of rejection, or pressure to hide parts of ourselves in order to feel accepted or safe. Many people grow up constantly monitoring whether they are “too masculine,” “too feminine,” “too emotional,” or somehow failing to fit the roles society expects of them.
In this video, I explore the difference between biological sex and gender, what gender norms and stereotypes actually are, and why gender isn’t simply a fixed binary. I also talk about how challenging rigid expectations can help people feel more authentic, emotionally free, and connected to themselves.
If any of this resonates with you and you’d like support exploring it further, I offer LGBTQ+ affirming therapy both online and in person from my practice in Manchester city centre. You’re welcome to get in touch to arrange a free 15 minute introductory call.
For more about how I support trans, non binary and gender diverse clients, you can read my Trans and Non Binary page.
