Intersex: socio‐cultural perspectives

Abstract

Intersex has long been framed as a medical issue and socio‐cultural perspectives on intersex have been viewed as inferior to biomedical ones. Consequently, recommendations for treating intersexuality include medical responses that commonly aim to give the child a body that conforms to sex and gender norms. Socio‐cultural scholars and intersex activists have critiqued interventions that rely upon normative ideas about sex, gender, and sexuality and their relationships. A broader view of possible approaches to intersex would allow greater societal acceptance and enable a more holistic approach to medical care.