SOGII (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Issues) is a section of the Canadian Psychological Association whose primary purpose is to advance knowledge and understanding of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, heterosexual and queer issues in psychology and allied disciplines. Topics that fall within the remit of this Section include: sexual identities and practices, trans/gender identities and practices, relationships, families, LGBTQ studies, queer theory, counseling/psychotherapy that promotes health sexualities and genders, attitudes, prejudice and discrimination, health, body image, media, violence, intergroup relations, the intersection of sexualities, gender identities and other important demographic characteristics/lines of power (e.g. class, disability, race/ethnicity, age, religion).

Please note that a strongly non-pathologizing stance will be taken whilst remaining inclusive of the variety of positions in the field and encouraging vigorous debate. Research that treats sexuality as pathology or in need of treatment and cure; research that is forensic in nature (e.g., research on child sexual victimization or pedophilia); and research that focuses on sexual dysfunction fall outside the remit of the Section. Given this mandate, we strongly encourage individuals conducting sexuality and gender research that falls into the aforementioned categories to participate in any activities sponsored by SOGII (e.g., poster and paper presentations at the Annual Convention of the Canadian Psychological Association).

Section Goals

• To provide a formal body through which individuals can exchange information on issues pertinent to sexual orientation and gender identity.
• To promote research and teaching on sexual orientation and gender identity issues.
• To disseminate relevant research and practice-based information on sexual orientation and gender identity issues to psychologists (scientists, educators/trainers, and practitioners), government, and the public.