The two are incredibly different 
By Lydia Smith
Many assume gender identity and sexual orientation are linked, but the two concepts are different and it’s important to know why.
On a very basic level, gender identity is described as being more about who you are, and sexual orientation is defined as who you want to be with.
If someone is transgender, for example, some people assume that they must also be lesbian, gay or bisexual – but this is not the case.
However, gender and sexuality is (obviously) much more complex than this.
What is gender identity?
Gender identity is your own personal perception of yourself – and there are many different genders outside of male and female. And importantly, the gender with which someone identifies might not match the gender they were assigned at birth.
According to the Human Rights Campaign, gender identity is the “innermost concept of self as male, female, a blend of both or neither – how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves.”
Gender is complicated because different genders come with a host of societal expectations about behaviours and characteristics, which can have negative impacts on people.
Societal expectations of gender norms – or gender roles – often dictate who can and should do what.
For instance, women have historically faced setbacks in the workplace, or fewer opportunities, purely because they are women and for no other reason.
Whereas from a traditional viewpoint, men are expected to make decisions, and naturally be authoritative when at work.
Gender also has legal implications. In the UK, anyone who wants to legally change the gender they were assigned with at birth has to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate, but it is a lengthy and difficult process so not everyone chooses to do this.
To qualify for the certificate, people must have lived for two years in the gender they identify with and have a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria.
Gender dysphoria is a condition where someone experiences distress because there is a mismatch between their gender identity and biological sex.
What is transitioning?
Transitioning describes the steps which a transgender person may take to live in the gender with which they identify.
The process is different for each person and may include medical intervention such as hormone therapy and surgeries, but not everyone wants or is able to have this.
It may involve transitioning socially, either by wearing different clothing, using names or pronouns or telling friends and family.
Gender expression is how someone expresses their gender identity externally, for example, through appearance – clothing, hair or make-up – or through their behaviour.
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