Being Not Binary: Experiences and Functions of Gender and Gender Communities

This qualitative study examines the experiences and functions of gender among people who do not identify their genders as exclusively either man or woman (e.g., genderfluid, nonconforming, agender, genderqueer, multigender, nonbinary people). In this paper, we use the term “not-binary” as an inclusive term that refers to these gender identities categorically. Semi-structured interviews with 17 participants living in the U.S. focused on meanings and functions of gender; processes of navigating intrapersonal, interpersonal, and sociopolitical experiences; and intersectional identities. Responses were analyzed using critical-constructivist grounded theory method (Levitt in Essentials of critical-constructivist grounded theory research, American Psychological Association, 2021). Findings revealed that participants intentionally engaged in processes of gender exploration, contestation, and transformation to deliberately challenge and reshape their own conceptualization of gender and that of others. Participants shared the meanings of their identities and pronouns for expressing their sense of self, and how they wished others to interact with them, as well as the complications of language for expressing genders that can be fluid and changing. In addition, participants conveyed the experience of having their gender identities politicized and their rights contested on the national stage. Expanding the transnormative narrative that focuses on gender dysphoria, participants highlighted affirming community and positive and euphoric gender experiences that supported them to engage in resistance to oppressive forces. These findings underscore the importance of education on not-binary experiences, the provision of gender affirming care, and the correction of public misinformation for the well-being of non-binary individuals.