How to Add Pronouns on Instagram: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding pronouns to your Instagram profile is a simple yet important step in promoting inclusivity and gender identity visibility on social media. Whether you use he/him, she/her, they/them, or other gender pronouns, Instagram’s pronouns feature allows users to display up to four pronouns next to their name. This feature fosters a more inclusive environment, making it easier for people to address others respectfully based on their identified gender. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to add pronouns to your Instagram profile, explore the available pronoun options, and discuss how to manage the privacy settings for this feature.

Why Adding Pronouns to Your Instagram Profile Matters

Promoting Gender Identity and Inclusion on Instagram

Adding pronouns to your Instagram profile is more than just a simple customization option; it’s a meaningful step toward promoting gender identity and fostering inclusion on social media platforms. By offering users the ability to share their preferred pronouns openly, Instagram encourages respect and understanding of diverse identities, particularly for transgender and non-binary individuals. Including pronouns on your Instagram profile provides clarity on how to address others, ensuring that gender identities are recognized and affirmed.

Instagram, as a leading social media platform, recognizes the importance of creating a space where users feel comfortable expressing their identity without judgment. With this inclusive feature, Instagram is taking a stand in support of the LGBTQ community and helping to normalize discussions around gender identity pronouns. This effort not only signals the platform’s commitment to diversity but also sets an example for other social media platforms to follow. By giving users the ability to add gender pronouns to their profile, Instagram is helping to make online spaces safer and more inclusive for all, particularly for those who may feel marginalized or misunderstood.

When I first added pronouns to my Instagram profile, I was surprised by how many people commented positively. It felt like a simple way to share a bit more about myself, especially with those who might not know me well. This feature helped me feel seen and allowed me to respect others’ identities by encouraging them to do the same.

Normalizing Gender Pronouns for Better User Interaction

Incorporating gender pronouns into user profiles also plays a crucial role in normalizing their usage in everyday interactions. Many Instagram users may not be familiar with the significance of using pronouns correctly, especially when interacting with people of different gender identities. Displaying pronouns on your Instagram profile helps to educate others on the importance of respecting gender pronouns, which leads to better, more respectful interactions across the platform.

For transgender and non-binary individuals, constantly correcting someone’s use of incorrect pronouns can be emotionally draining. By allowing people to clearly display their preferred pronouns, Instagram makes it easier for users to avoid this discomfort, leading to smoother and more positive communication. When people see pronouns on Instagram, it serves as a reminder to respect gender identities and promotes more thoughtful, inclusive interactions.

This inclusive feature aligns with the growing awareness of gender diversity and helps to create an online environment where pronouns are seen as a natural part of social interactions. As more people share their pronouns, it becomes easier to normalize their usage, creating a more welcoming and respectful space for all users. Ultimately, adding pronouns to your profile is a step toward greater equality and understanding in the digital world.

In a 2023 case study by The Trevor Project, it was found that the correct use of pronouns for LGBTQ+ youth significantly reduced rates of depression. The study emphasized that when peers and family members used an individual’s chosen pronouns, it led to a decrease in suicidal ideation by over 50%. This shows how something as simple as using the right pronouns can have a profound impact on mental health​ (The Trevor Project).

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Pronouns on Instagram

How to Access the Pronouns Feature

Adding pronouns to your IG profile is a simple process. Instagram has made it easy to access the pronouns feature from the Edit Profile section. Whether you’re using the Instagram app on Apple or Android devices, the steps are the same. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
2. Tap on your profile icon in the bottom right corner to go to your profile.
3. Tap the Edit Profile button located below your username.
4. Scroll down until you find the Pronouns section, and tap to open it.

Instagram allows users to add up to four pronouns to their profile, providing flexibility in how they identify. This feature is a significant move toward inclusion on the platform, helping users feel represented and respected in the way they prefer.

Adding Pronouns to Your Instagram Profile

Once you’ve opened the Pronouns section, follow these steps to add your preferred pronouns:

1. Begin typing your preferred pronouns in the search bar. Instagram will provide a list of currently available pronouns.
2. Select the pronouns you want to display. You can add up to four pronouns from the provided list, which includes a range of options, from he/him and she/her to they/them and other less common pronouns like xe/xem or ze/zir.
3. After you’ve selected your pronouns, you can decide whether you want to make them visible to everyone or just to your followers. Use the “Show to Followers” toggle to adjust the privacy setting.
4. Once you’ve configured everything, tap the Done button to save your changes.

The pronouns will now appear next to your username in gray text on your Instagram bio, signaling your gender identity pronouns to anyone viewing your profile.

As someone who values inclusivity, using pronouns in my Instagram bio felt like a natural step. By doing this, I’m helping normalize the practice of sharing pronouns, which in turn fosters a more respectful environment for everyone. A few of my friends, who were initially unaware of the feature, were inspired to add their pronouns after seeing mine.

Exploring the Pronoun Options Available on Instagram

Instagram’s Pronoun Selection List

When you choose to add pronouns to your profile, you’ll find a wide range of pronoun options available. Instagram’s list includes commonly used pronouns like he/him, she/her, and they/them, as well as lesser-known pronouns such as xe/xem, ze/zir, and ve/ver. These options aim to support users from diverse gender identities, making it easier for everyone to be addressed with the pronouns they prefer.

Instagram also provides pronouns in various languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Turkish, Arabic, Farsi, Norwegian, Finnish, Danish, Dutch, and Swedish, reflecting the platform’s global user base. This multilingual approach enhances inclusivity and allows more users to feel represented on the platform.

Users can add up to four pronouns to their profile, offering flexibility for those who may identify with multiple sets of pronouns or for individuals whose pronouns may change over time. If your preferred pronouns are not available, Instagram allows you to request additional pronouns by submitting suggestions directly through the app.

How to Request New Gender Pronoun Options

If you find that the pronouns you use are not currently supported on Instagram, you can take steps to suggest the addition of new pronouns. Instagram encourages users to request pronouns that are missing from the platform, supporting the continuous expansion of its pronoun options. This process helps ensure that everyone, including those using less common gender pronouns, can feel seen and respected.

To request new pronouns:

1. Go to the Help section of the Instagram app.
2. Submit a request for new pronouns through the Feedback option.
3. Instagram will review and potentially add the requested pronouns in future updates, based on user demand.

By allowing users to suggest pronouns, Instagram fosters a sense of community and ensures the platform evolves to meet the needs of all its users. This commitment to inclusivity helps make Instagram a safer and more welcoming space, particularly for individuals in the LGBTQ and transgender communities.

According to research, 50% of Americans now see gender on a spectrum and feel comfortable using gender-inclusive pronouns. Additionally, one-third of adults aged 18-29 report knowing someone who uses gender-inclusive pronouns, showing a growing awareness and acceptance of gender diversity​ (Inspirus).

Privacy Settings for Your Instagram Pronouns

How to Control Who Sees Your Pronouns

When you add pronouns to your Instagram profile, you have the option to control who can see them. Instagram provides a simple way to manage the visibility of your pronouns, allowing users to maintain their privacy while still participating in the inclusive feature. You can decide to make your pronouns visible to everyone or limit visibility to just your followers.

To control who sees your pronouns:

1. After selecting your pronouns in the Pronouns section, you’ll see a toggle labeled “Show to Followers”.
2. If you want your pronouns to be visible to everyone, leave the toggle off. This will allow the pronouns on your Instagram profile to be seen by anyone who visits your page.
3. If you prefer to show your pronouns only to people who follow you, turn the “Show to Followers” toggle on. This limits visibility to your followers, ensuring that your preferred pronouns are only shared with a trusted group.

This privacy setting helps users who may feel more comfortable sharing their pronouns with a select audience, offering flexibility and protection. For those new to using gender identity pronouns publicly, this feature is a helpful tool in deciding how and when to share your pronouns with others.

Adjusting Pronoun Visibility on Your Profile

Once you’ve chosen how your pronouns will be displayed, you can always return to your Instagram profile and adjust the visibility settings. Instagram’s flexible options allow you to easily modify how your pronouns appear at any time. To adjust visibility:

1. Go to your profile, tap Edit Profile, and navigate to the Pronouns section.
2. Make any changes to the visibility by switching the Show to Followers toggle on or off, depending on your preference.
3. Tap Done to save any updates.

This ongoing flexibility ensures that users can manage their privacy and inclusion at their comfort level, making Instagram’s pronouns feature an accessible and user-friendly tool for all.

A 2023 study found that 74% of respondents believe employers should learn and use employees’ pronouns and names in the workplace. This highlights the increasing importance of gender inclusivity not only in personal interactions but also in professional settings​ (Inspirus)​(The Trevor Project).

How Instagram Users Can Contribute to Inclusive Practices

Instagram users can play an important role in fostering inclusion and gender equality on the platform by using the pronouns feature thoughtfully. By sharing preferred pronouns and respecting others’ pronouns, users help normalize the practice of acknowledging and respecting gender identity in online interactions.

Additionally, users can encourage others to adopt inclusive practices by engaging in respectful conversations and sharing educational resources about the importance of pronouns. Participating in such conversations creates a more welcoming environment for everyone, particularly for transgender and non-binary individuals.

Conclusion

Adding pronouns to your Insta profile is a simple yet impactful way to promote inclusivity and respect on one of the world’s largest social media platforms. Whether you’re sharing your preferred pronouns with the public or just your followers, this feature helps foster better understanding and communication, especially for those in the LGBTQ and transgender communities. Instagram’s decision to offer a diverse set of pronouns in multiple languages reflects its commitment to supporting gender identity and creating a more welcoming environment for all users.

By taking advantage of this inclusive feature, you not only contribute to normalizing gender pronouns but also help create a more respectful and thoughtful online community. Whether you’re adding or updating your pronouns or simply showing support by respecting others’ choices, every action you take helps Instagram become a safer and more inclusive space for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I miss the launch of Instagram’s new pronoun feature?

If you missed the launch of Instagram’s pronoun feature, there’s no need to worry. The feature is now fully integrated into the platform. You can access it anytime by updating your Instagram app and following the steps to add pronouns under Edit Profile. There’s no deadline for when you must add your pronouns, so you can start whenever you’re ready.

Can I add custom pronouns if they’re not listed?

Instagram currently offers a selection of pronouns, but if your pronouns aren’t listed, you can’t directly add your own pronouns. However, Instagram regularly updates the list, and users can request new pronouns to be added through the Help Center.

Will my followers be notified if I change or remove pronouns from my profile?

No, your followers will not receive a notification if you remove pronouns or change them on your profile. The changes will simply appear when someone views your bio.

Can I use different sets of pronouns for different audiences?

Instagram currently allows you to display your pronouns to either everyone or just your followers using the “Show to Followers” option. However, it doesn’t yet support different sets of pronouns for specific groups (e.g., using one set of pronouns for close friends and another for public followers).

Is there an easy way to clarify the importance of pronouns to my followers?

One easy way to clarify the importance of pronouns to your followers is to share posts or stories that explain why using pronouns matters for inclusivity and respect. Instagram also supports a vibrant community of creators who regularly share educational content on gender identity and pronoun use, making it simple to spread awareness.

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