What does the term "transgender" refer to?

The term "transgender" refers to people whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. This encompasses a broad spectrum of gender identities, which may include individuals who identify as male, female, both, neither, or anywhere along the gender spectrum, and it emphasizes the distinction between gender identity and biological sex.

Understanding gender identity is essential in recognizing the experiences and challenges faced by transgender individuals, which can include social, legal, and medical aspects. This term reflects a critical aspect of human diversity and is important in discussions around gender rights, inclusion, and representation in society. The other options focus solely on sexual orientation or the affirmation of assigned gender at birth, which do not capture the broader and more complex understanding of gender identity that "transgender" represents.