Answer

Xenogender is a non-binary gender identity that is defined in terms of concepts, feelings, or things that are not traditionally associated with or considered sufficient to define gender. These can include animals, plants, objects, abstract concepts, or synesthetic experiences. It’s a way for individuals to describe their gender identity through metaphors and associations that resonate with their internal sense of self, often when conventional gender terms feel inadequate or limiting.

Key aspects of xenogender include:

• Beyond Binary and Traditional Non-binary: Xenogenders exist outside of the male/female binary and often also outside of more conventional non-binary identities that are still related to a spectrum of maleness or femaleness.

• Metaphorical Description: Individuals use metaphors, aesthetics, and connections to external concepts to articulate their gender. This allows for a highly personalized and nuanced description of one’s gender identity.

• Neurological Connection (often): While not exclusive to neurodivergent individuals, xenogender identities are frequently embraced by those who identify as neurodivergent (e.g., autistic, ADHD, etc.). The connection may stem from different ways of experiencing and processing gender, with individuals finding comfort in expressing their gender through non-traditional means. Neurodivergent people may experience gender differently and find it easier or more accurate to express their gender through concepts outside the typical understanding of gender.

• Personal and Subjective: Like all gender identities, xenogender is a deeply personal and subjective experience. What one person means by a specific xenogender label can differ from another’s understanding.

Examples of xenogenders:

• Animalgender: Identifying with the characteristics and/or feelings of an animal or animals. For example, catgender, where someone identifies with the qualities of cats.
• Objectgender: Identifying with the characteristics and/or feelings of an object. For example, stargender, identifying with the feelings and characteristics of stars.
• Conceptgender: Identifying with an abstract concept. For example, lovegender, identifying with the characteristics and/or feelings of love.
• Aesthetigender: Gender is best described by a specific aesthetic.
• Synesthesiagender: Gender is experienced through synesthesia.

Controversy:

Xenogenders are a controversial topic, particularly outside of LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. Common criticisms and concerns include:

• Trivialization of Gender: Some argue that using non-traditional terms to describe gender trivializes the experiences of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals who face discrimination based on their gender identity.
• Lack of Understanding: The metaphorical nature of xenogenders can be difficult for those unfamiliar with the concept to understand, leading to confusion and dismissal.
• Medicalization/Mental Health: Some question whether the need for such specific and unusual gender labels may be a sign of underlying mental health issues or a form of attention-seeking behavior (though this view is generally considered harmful and inaccurate within communities that embrace xenogender identities).

Support and Validity:

Those who identify with xenogenders argue that:

• Gender is a Spectrum: Gender is a complex and multifaceted spectrum that cannot be easily defined or categorized.
• Self-Definition: Individuals have the right to define their own gender identity and express it in ways that feel authentic to them.
• Community and Validation: Xenogender communities provide a space for individuals to connect, share their experiences, and find validation for their identities.

In summary, xenogender is a non-binary gender identity defined through metaphors and associations with concepts outside traditional gender understandings. It is a complex and evolving area within gender identity and expression, and views on its validity vary.