Reference: Garrett - Walker, J. J., & Montagno, M. J. (2023). Queering Labels: Expanding Identity Categories in LGBTQ + Research and Clinical Practice. Journal of LGBT Youth , 20 (4), 865 – 881. https://doi - org.portal.lib.fit.edu/10.1080/19361653.2021.1896411 The public and p rofessionals find it challenging to keep up with the different ways LGBTQ+ people identify themselves. Researchers compared how Millennial and Generation Z queer communities refer to their gender identity (what gender they see themselves) and sexual identity (to whom they respond sexually). They collected online surveys from 800 young adult s (18 - 35 years) w ho identif ied as LGBTQ+ in their gender and sexual identities . Results? 40% of the sample endorsed being sexual ly responsive outside the norm : asexual (not experiencing any sexual attraction toward people), pansexual (experiencing sexual or romantic att raction toward people regardless of sex or gender), and queer (not confined to society’s ‘heterosexual norm’ ). Additionally, 34% of the sample endorsed an expansive gender identity ( identifying as transgender , i.e., different from birth gender), or gender queer/nonbinary (identifying as a different gender that does not conform to conventional gender distinctions). Younger Generation Z were more likely to report an expansive gender and sexual identity compared to older Millennials Generation Y . With society’s more acceptance and openness, the younger Generation Z seems more comfortable exploring and revealing options. Yet, it still takes courage to reveal one’s gender or sexual orientation. Let’s learn, accept differences, and be compassionate!

Written by Kristin T. Harris, Ph.D.