What Does Autigender Mean?

Autigender: A Closer Look

In recent years, the concept of autigender has become more visible as society broadens its understanding of gender diversity. As a psychologist, I believe it is essential to explore and explain these identities to foster acceptance and inclusivity.

This blog post will help you understand autigender, how it relates to gender, the misconceptions and challenges faced by those who identify as autigender, theories on gender diversity, and ways to offer support.

What Is Autigender?

Autigender is a term used to describe a gender identity that is deeply linked to an individual’s experience of being autistic. For some, their understanding of gender may be shaped or influenced by how they process and interpret the world as an autistic person.

This does not mean that all autistic individuals identify as autigender, nor does identifying as autigender suggest that someone is automatically autistic. Instead, it acknowledges a unique relationship between autism and gender identity. This includes the popular term gender-queer.

Typically, autigender includes:

• A sense that traditional gender categories (e.g., male, female, nonbinary) feel incomplete or don’t align with one’s experience.
• A perception of gender that may be influenced by the sensory, cognitive, or emotional experiences associated with autism.
• A desire to describe gender in ways that reflect the distinct experiences of being autistic.

Autigender and Gender

Autigender challenges the binary and rigid ideas of gender that society often imposes. It highlights the fluid and multifaceted nature of gender identity. Some autigender individuals might feel that their gender is inseparable from their autistic identity because:

• They process emotions, language, and social norms differently.
• They might reject societal expectations of gender roles because those expectations feel arbitrary or irrelevant.
• Sensory experiences might shape how they connect with certain gender identities or expressions.

For example, someone who is autigender might feel that their sensory sensitivities or cognitive patterns make it difficult to align with traditional gender labels. They may adopt a more personalized or nuanced way of expressing their gender.

Misconceptions and Social Challenges

Like many gender-diverse identities, autigender is often misunderstood. Some common misconceptions include:

• It’s “made up” or “not real”: Dismissing autigender as imaginary invalidates lived experiences and perpetuates stigma.
• It’s just a phase: Gender exploration is a natural part of identity formation, but assuming it is temporary ignores the authenticity of autigender identities.
• All autistic people identify as autigender: This is not true. Autism and gender identity are separate aspects of selfhood, and not all autistic individuals feel their gender is connected to their neurodiversity.

Social challenges for autigender individuals include:

• Difficulty finding acceptance within both the LGBTQ+ [gay men] and autism communities.
• Facing discrimination, invalidation, or ignorance from others.
• Limited representation in media or public discourse, leading to isolation.

Theories on Gender Diverse Identities

There are several theories that can help us understand the diversity of gender identities, including autigender:

• Social Constructivism: Gender is seen as a set of roles and expectations shaped by cultural and social norms. Autigender individuals may reject these norms, creating a more personalized understanding of gender.
• Biopsychosocial Model: Gender identity emerges from the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. Autism can influence this interaction, creating unique gender experiences.
• Intersectionality: Autigender is an example of how multiple aspects of identity (autism and gender) intersect, shaping one’s overall sense of self.
• Neurodiversity Paradigm: This perspective celebrates neurological differences like autism as natural variations in human diversity. It aligns with the idea that autigender reflects valid and meaningful self-expression.

Supporting Someone Who Is Autigender

Supporting someone who identifies as autigender involves empathy, respect, and openness. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Listen without judgment: Let them share their experiences in their own words.
• Use their chosen pronouns and language: Respect how they define their identity.
• Educate yourself: Learn about autism and gender diversity to better understand their perspective.
• Advocate for inclusion: Challenge stereotypes and support spaces where autigender individuals feel safe and validated.
• Be patient: Remember that understanding identity can be a lifelong journey, both for them and for you.

Wrap Up

Autigender is a gender identity deeply connected to the experience of being autistic. It challenges traditional gender norms and underscores the importance of embracing diverse ways of understanding and expressing gender.

While misconceptions and social barriers persist, greater awareness and compassion can foster acceptance. By listening, learning, and advocating, we can help create a world where autigender individuals feel seen and supported.

Every person’s journey with identity is unique. As a psychologist, I encourage you to approach these conversations with curiosity and kindness, creating space for all identities to be understood and valued.