Gender binary is a term for a concept that classifies and divides sex and gender into two distinct, rigid categories: male and female. This artificial gender division is a social construction that defines certain attributes and characteristics to men and other attributes and characteristics to women. This binary concept fails to capture the rich diversity that exists within the scope of gender identity.
The gender binary defines the behaviour and choices people make in relation to their perceived gender roles. The classifications of "masculine" and "feminine" create social gender roles that make it difficult to behave in a way unassociated with one's traditional or assigned gender role. In this definition, sex, gender and sexuality are all connected and assumed to align. For example, a biological male is expected to have masculine appearance and preferences and a heterosexual orientation. The gender binary fails to capture queer, transgender, and LGBTQ individuals, as well as other identities and variations of gender.
