What is meant by "gender identity"?

Gender identity refers to an individual's deeply held sense of their own gender, which may be male, female, a blend of both, neither, or something else entirely. It is an internal perception and understanding of oneself in terms of gender, which may or may not align with the sex assigned at birth. This aspect of identity is subjective and personal, shaped by various factors, including societal influences, cultural context, and personal experiences.

While other options relate to aspects of gender, they do not accurately define gender identity. Genetic predisposition pertains to biological determinants and does not encompass the personal and subjective experience of gender. Physical appearance may influence how gender is perceived socially, but it does not capture the internal understanding an individual has of their own gender. Social roles, while often linked to gender, primarily refer to expectations and behaviors deemed appropriate for men and women in a given society, rather than the intrinsic sense of self that constitutes gender identity. Hence, the acknowledgment that gender identity is about an individual's perception of themselves as male or female is crucial in understanding gender in a comprehensive and respectful manner.