Gender identity and sexuality in an online sample of intersex-identified individuals: a descriptive study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Common scientific scholarship typically assumes direct relations between the development of sex, gender identity and sexual orientation. Recent studies, however, reported a range of gender identities and sexualities in individuals with typical sex development. Here we investigated aspects of gender identity, sexuality and the relations between them in an online sample of intersex-identified individuals (N = 107) using the Multi-Gender Identity Questionnaire (Multi-GIQ) and a measure of sexuality. Conducting the study outside of clinical surroundings provided an opportunity to reach intersex-identified individuals who may not be willing to collaborate with studies organised by the medical establishment. Results show a range of gender and sexuality experiences, and no correlation between sexuality and gender identity. Aspects of both showed small to large correlations with dissatisfaction with gender-atypical body characteristics. The implications to our understanding of the relations between the development of sex, gender identity and sexuality are discussed.