Clocks, Mirrors, Plants: Processes of Gender Shifts Among Adults During COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic created social disruptions and catalyzed gender shifts for some individuals. The Gender Identity Development Framework describes the domains of gender and processes by which individuals develop their gender identity. We examine this framework’s elements among adults in North Carolina who reported gender identity changes during the pandemic. We conducted 25 photo-elicitation interviews in which interviews were prompted by participants’ photographs. Using content and thematic analyses, our team analyzed both photos and interviews. We found media, self-reflection, and feedback to be major elements of navigating one’s gender identity shifts that were affected by the pandemic. More pandemic-specific components included the prevalence of Zoom and remote work, more time to oneself, and masks. Our research highlights key themes and elements of gender identity development during the pandemic.