LGBTQ + Population Flashcards
(24 cards)
What does the term ‘Cisgender’ mean?
A term used to describe a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex assigned to them at birth.
This term contrasts with transgender, where the gender identity does not align with the sex assigned at birth.
What is Gender-Affirming Surgery (GAS)?
Surgical procedures that can help people adjust their bodies to match their innate gender identity more closely.
Used interchangeably with gender affirmation, gender confirmation, and gender-confirming surgery. This term replaces the older term ‘sex change’.
What does the acronym WPATH stand for?
The World Professional Association for Transgender Health.
WPATH advises mental health screenings and recommends therapy prior to surgery.
What is Gender Identity?
One’s innermost concept of self as male, female, a blend of both or neither.
It reflects how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves, which may align or differ from their sex assigned at birth.
True or False: Not every transgender person will desire or have resources for gender-affirming surgery.
True.
Gender-affirming surgery is a personal choice and not a requirement for all transgender individuals.
Fill in the blank: Gender-Affirming Surgery is also referred to as _______.
gender reassignment surgery.
Other terms include genital reconstruction surgery and medical transition.
What is gender dysphoria?
The distress caused when a person’s assigned sex at birth and assumed gender is not the same as the one with which they identify.
According to the American Psychiatric Association’s DSM, this term aims to better characterize the experiences of affected individuals.
What does the term gender non-conforming refer to?
A broad term referring to people who do not behave in a way that conforms to traditional gender expectations or whose gender expression does not fit neatly into a category.
While gender non-conforming individuals may identify as transgender, not all do.
What is a key characteristic of individuals who identify as genderqueer?
They typically reject static categories of gender and embrace a fluidity of gender identity and often sexual orientation.
This identity may or may not align with traditional notions of gender.
True or False: All gender non-conforming individuals identify as transgender.
False
Not all gender non-conforming individuals identify as transgender.
Fill in the blank: Gender non-conforming individuals may also identify as _______.
transgender
What perspective can help in understanding gender?
Viewing gender as a continuum that exists with infinite possibilities outside of the binary.
This perspective allows for a more inclusive understanding of gender identities.
What does the term Intersex refer to?
A variety of conditions where a person is born with sexual and/or reproductive anatomy or chromosomal patterns that don’t fit the standard binary categorization of ‘male’ or ‘female’ bodies
Examples include individuals who possess both testicular and ovarian tissue.
What is Sexual Orientation?
A person’s identity in relation to the genders to which they are emotionally, romantically, and/or sexually attracted
It is independent of their gender identity.
Define Transgender.
An umbrella term for people whose gender identity and/or expression is different from cultural expectations based on the sex they were assigned at birth
Transgender individuals may identify as straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, etc.
What is Conversion Therapy?
A dangerous and unethical practice aimed at changing a person’s sexual orientation, attempting to convert them from gay or bisexual to straight
It is also known as ‘reparative’ or ‘sexual reorientation’ therapy.
True or False: Conversion therapy is considered ethical by the NASW Code of Ethics.
False
Conversion therapy violates the NASW Code of Ethics.
Is Conversion Therapy legal in all states?
No, it is illegal in some states but not all
The legality varies across different regions.
What is an important consideration when navigating the process of ‘coming out’ for LGBTQ+ individuals?
The process can look different for everyone and involves complexities such as:
* Impact on relationships with friends and family
* Safety concerns (physical and emotional)
* Changes in how they are viewed by others
* Internalized and externalized homophobia
The coming out process may occur at different stages in a person’s life and varies widely across individuals.
What are some risk factors faced by LGBTQ+ individuals?
LGBTQ+ people are at greater risk for:
* Discrimination
* Verbal abuse
* Physical assaults
* Violence
* Suicide
* Childhood sexual abuse
These risk factors contribute to mental health challenges and require sensitivity when providing support.
In couples therapy, what should be considered when one partner has not come out?
Support both clients while respecting:
* The decision of the non-out partner
* The partner’s feelings of being unable to live openly or freely
It’s essential to navigate the dynamics carefully to ensure both partners feel heard and validated.
Why is it important to ask about pronouns when beginning work with clients?
To respect clients’ identities and ensure accurate representation on paperwork
Asking about pronouns can be part of the intake assessment process.
What should be done with clients’ pronouns on paperwork?
Clients’ pronouns should be included on paperwork
This practice fosters an inclusive environment.
What should practitioners remember about themes related to clients’ experiences?
While some themes may be common, everyone’s individual experiences will vary
It’s important to listen to the unique themes that emerge for each client.
