The way people perceive themselves influences their decisions regarding when, how, and if they disclose their sexual or gender identity. Self-perception can be broken down into three main areas: physical appearance, personality traits, and attitudes towards oneself. Each area affects different aspects of identity disclosure.
Someone who identifies as transgender may be more likely to disclose their identity if they have a masculine or feminine body type that matches their gender identity. Similarly, someone who is attracted to multiple genders may find it easier to disclose this part of their identity if they are comfortable in their own skin and don't worry about societal judgement. On the other hand, someone who has an introverted personality trait may avoid disclosing their identity because they fear judgment and rejection from others. In addition, someone who holds traditional beliefs about relationships may feel uncomfortable disclosing their same-sex orientation because it goes against those beliefs.
Self-perception plays a significant role in determining when and how people choose to reveal their identity.
Physical Appearance
Physical appearance refers to a person's outward appearance, including their height, weight, shape, facial features, and hair. Someone with a physique that matches their gender identity is more likely to disclose their identity without hesitation than someone whose body does not match their identity. Research suggests that individuals with non-conforming bodies, such as intersex or transgender people, often face difficulties in terms of social acceptance and interactions.
Studies show that society views masculinity and femininity as binary opposites, so anyone outside of these categories faces challenges in being accepted by others. Therefore, physical appearance can influence whether or not someone chooses to disclose their sexual or gender identity.
A person born female but identifies as male may have difficulty finding clothes that fit them well due to their male frame. This lack of clothing options can make it harder for them to express themselves comfortably.
Some may find it difficult to pass as their identified gender if they do not have typical physical traits associated with that gender.
There are resources available for individuals to modify their physical appearance through hormones or surgery, which can ease the transition process.
Physical appearance plays an essential role in how we perceive ourselves and our place in society, leading us to be more comfortable sharing aspects of ourselves that align with societal norms.
Personality Traits
Personality traits refer to one's innate character, temperament, or individuality. These include things like introversion vs. extroversion, empathy, creativity, and emotional stability. An introverted person may feel uncomfortable disclosing their sexual or gender identity because they fear judgment and rejection from others. They may also avoid revealing this part of themselves out of fear of appearing vulnerable or being seen as different. On the other hand, an extrovert may feel confident enough to share their identity because they enjoy interacting with people and don't mind standing out.
Attitudes towards oneself refers to how one views themselves in relation to others, such as self-esteem, confidence, and self-worth. Someone with low self-esteem is less likely to disclose their identity than someone who has high self-esteem. They may worry about being judged or rejected by others for their identity, leading them to hide it from friends, family, and coworkers.
Those with higher levels of confidence are generally more open to exploring new experiences and taking risks, making them more likely to share their identity without hesitation.
Self-acceptance helps individuals embrace all parts of themselves, including their sexual orientation or gender identity. This acceptance can help them overcome any fears associated with disclosure and encourage them to live authentically.
Personality traits affect when and how we decide to share our identity.
Attitudes Towards Others
Attitudes towards others refer to how we perceive society's attitudes towards us based on our physical appearance or personality traits. If a person believes that society accepts people outside the norm, they may be more comfortable disclosing their identity.
If they believe that society views non-conformists negatively, they may keep their identity private to avoid judgment and rejection.
A transgender individual living in a community where transphobia is prevalent may feel unsafe sharing their identity due to potential backlash from others. Alternatively, an individual living in a supportive environment may find it easier to disclose their identity because they know they will receive support rather than criticism.
Self-perception plays a significant role in deciding when and how we choose to reveal our sexual or gender identity. Our physical appearance, personality traits, and attitudes towards ourselves influence whether or not we feel safe and secure enough to share this part of ourselves with others. By understanding these factors, we can make informed choices about when to disclose our identities and how to handle negative reactions from those who don't understand or accept us.
How does self-perception influence the decision to disclose sexual or gender identity?
Self-perception is an essential aspect of an individual's overall character. It involves one's perception of themselves as they are, including their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, abilities, and traits (Cozza & Hart, 2018). Self-perception may include sexual orientation and gender identity.