misgenders

Misgendering refers to the act of referring to a person using gender terms, pronouns, or expressions that do not align with their identified or expressed gender. This can occur unintentionally or deliberately and may involve using incorrect pronouns, assuming a binary gender (male or female) when someone identifies outside of it, or mislabeling a person’s gender identity altogether.

Misgendering can have significant emotional and psychological effects on individuals, particularly for those whose gender identity differs from societal expectations or norms. It may contribute to feelings of invalidation, discomfort, or distress, reinforcing barriers to self-expression and acceptance. Many transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals actively work to be correctly referred to using their chosen names and pronouns as a form of self-affirmation and respect.

The practice of avoiding misgendering is often framed under the principle of gender neutrality, which emphasizes using language that respects a person’s self-identified gender. This includes using preferred pronouns (such as *they/them*, *he/him*, or *she/her*) and avoiding assumptions based on appearance, voice, or name. Organizations and institutions increasingly adopt guidelines to promote inclusive language, recognizing that respectful communication fosters a more welcoming environment for all individuals.

While misgendering is not inherently malicious, its recurrence can reflect systemic biases or a lack of awareness about gender diversity. Many people learn to navigate these interactions through education, empathy, and open communication. Correcting mistakes with sincerity—such as apologizing and using the right terms moving forward—can help mitigate harm and reinforce respectful behavior.