Definition: "Coming in" is the process of discovering ones self-identity and gender expression.
Most are familiar with the term "coming out," where an individual begins disclosing his/her sexual identity and gender expression to others but the process begins with self-discovery or by "coming in."
Like coming out, coming in is an ongoing process and not a one-time event. Discovering ones self-identity and gender expression can take time. According to medical site WebMD, "There is about a two-year period of time for many youth during which they self identify as non-heterosexual––but they tend to keep this information to themselves."
Many people discover their same-sex attractions, bisexuality and gender expression during the coming in process; however, coming in doesn't always begin during adolescence. A person can come in later in life (high school, college, post-education) depending on a number of factors such as an individual's level of self-acceptance, family life and other environments.
Must Reads:
Coming Out Step-by-Step
Keeping A Coming Out Journal
Ways You Shouldn't Come Out
Most are familiar with the term "coming out," where an individual begins disclosing his/her sexual identity and gender expression to others but the process begins with self-discovery or by "coming in."
Like coming out, coming in is an ongoing process and not a one-time event. Discovering ones self-identity and gender expression can take time. According to medical site WebMD, "There is about a two-year period of time for many youth during which they self identify as non-heterosexual––but they tend to keep this information to themselves."
Many people discover their same-sex attractions, bisexuality and gender expression during the coming in process; however, coming in doesn't always begin during adolescence. A person can come in later in life (high school, college, post-education) depending on a number of factors such as an individual's level of self-acceptance, family life and other environments.
Must Reads:
Coming Out Step-by-Step
Keeping A Coming Out Journal
Ways You Shouldn't Come Out
