ABSTRACT
Heteronormativity is the idea that sex and romantic relationships are only normal between a cis-gendered woman and a cis-gendered man, that sex involves a penis penetrating a vagina and that the other forms and expressions of sexuality and gender are not normal. Gender presentation is how a person expresses their gender using signs and signals such as clothing, physical appearance and even behaviour and mannerisms. Gender expression is something we learn from our environment and is expected of us based on our assumed gender. Narrow views of gender and strict gender scripts can lead to increased risk of mental health, sexual dysfunctions and a greater sense of un-fulfilment in life. Social pressures can often make us feel like we must conform to the gender norms, which can prevent us from exploring things that would make us feel authentic or fulfilled.
