We are all a mix of masculine and feminine qualities. However, this mixture is often monitored by the society we live in. Boys learn pretty quickly that they should not cry or play with dolls. Girls learn that they should look a certain way. Living an androgynous lifestyle involves a state of mind and external gender expression.
The Androgynous Mindset
Androgyny is when an individual does not see themselves as being male or female. Some of them have a biologically assigned gender, but they do not identify as those chromosomes. Not all people are born with a male or female body. Those who are born inter-sexed may identify as being androgynous.
People who are androgynous may feel frustrated living in a world that is very segmented when it comes to gender. In our society, male and female are seen two different worlds. However, people who are androgynous blend those worlds.
Androgyny allows everyone despite gender, to be sensitive, strong, beautiful, smart, and assertive. It does not matter if someone is a boy or a girl, that child can play with dolls or trucks. It allows people to have freedom when it comes to gender expression.
Some people who identify as androgynous may wish for gender neutral pronouns. These are common in other languages. The most common is "hir." There is an effort for other gender neutral pronouns, such as "zhe," "zher," and "zhim." Since these are not yet common in the English language, people may wish for a mix of pronouns to be used. This means switching between male to female pronouns.
Genderqueer is a related term. This is newer and adopted by many teens and young adults to express their feelings about gender. People who are genderqueer may appear androgynous, but the emphasis is placed upon their internal feelings on gender.
Expressing Androgyny
Most people reference Pat from Saturday Night Live when they think of androgyny. This is far from the truth. An androgynous look can be beautiful and stylish.
Biological females may or may not bind their chests. Curves are usually associated with femininity, so some people who have these curves may bind them to appear more androgynous. Depending on facial structure, hair can be grown long or cut short. There are many unisex hairstyles that can be used to achieve an androgynous look.
The great thing about androgyny is the freedom to express yourself however you like. No matter what your gender, if you like a certain accessory, hat, or shirt, you can wear it. The combination of these traditionally male and female elements is what creates an androgynous style.
These elements can be used to the extent to which you feel comfortable. Some people dress simple to express androgyny. They may wear unisex clothing, limit accessories, and have a simple haircut. Others may use make up, elaborate clothing and accessories, and can have wild hairstyles. This is up to the individual.
Some people may have sex reassignment surgery. This includes some of the same procedures that transgender people may have. Not every androgynous person feels the desire for surgery. It depends upon the individual.
Identity and Coming Out
Those who identify as being androgynous may find themselves struggling with the same issues as many gay, lesbian, bi sexual, and transgender people. They may feel ashamed of who they are, or like they do not fit in with general society.
Support groups can be found online and in the community. There are also social networking sites that can connect you with others. Joining these can help you feel less alone.
In certain situations, it may become necessary to address your androgynous identity. This may involve expressing your desire for gender neutral pronouns, or that you do not want to be referred to as one specific gender. Coming out is a scary thing, but it also gives you a chance to educate others.
It is vital to be who you are. Everyone deserves to be comfortable with themselves both internally and externally. Gender expression is healthy, and there is nothing to be ashamed about.
J. Lee Phelan - Hello Readers! My name is J Lee and I currently reside in New York. I'm a freelance writer and artist, which is exactly what I wanted ...
Join the Conversation