Italian proposal for non-binary and inclusive language: The schwa as a non-gender–specific ending

Abstract

Introduction

In recent years, an increasing number of non-bi-nary individuals have sought recognition in Italian society. The Italian language must adapt to this new social complexity, encouraging gender-neutral pronouns and suffixes.

Method

As a new Italian proposal, Vera Gheno recommended the use of the “schwa” (ə) as a neutral suffix in written and spoken language, to promote greater inclusivity, while avoiding the overextended masculine. other Western languages, such as English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Swedish, have adopted neutral pronouns and suffixes as standard linguistic practice, thereby improving the well-being of non-binary individuals.

Results

This letter to the editor aims at discussing the clinical relevance of using the schwa to refer to non-binary people. the “Be as You Are” Clinical research Center for the study of sexual orientations and gender identities of Sapienza University of Rome supports the schwa’s use in respect of non-binary patients.

Conclusion

The schwa may make the Italian language more respectful of everyone’s gender identities. evidence shows that use of a neutral pronoun may reduce gender dysphoria and encourage the development of gender euphoria, characterized by positive feelings (i.e., joy, pride) toward one’s non-binary identity.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the patients of the “Be as You Are,” Clinical and Research Center of the Department of Developmental and Social Psychology (Adry, Alex, Charlie, Elena, Erri, Forest, Jake, Liv, Lyves, Logan, Luka, Oliver, Nicky, Robert, Zoe), who contributed to our knowledge of non-binary identities.

Disclosure

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Funding

No competing financial interests exist.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.