How to query gender in a multiple-choice poll/survey? In a study where human subjects are given questionnaires, it may be interesting to analyze whether effects are gender-specific and/or more pronounced in one gender than in (the) other(s). How can this information be gathered in a way that respects every individual independent of gender? How many checkboxes does one need for the question, and how should these be labeled?
I have previously seen this done in the following simple way:


Female
Male
Other (fill in blank) ________
Decline to Answer


This makes the common case (Male/Female) easy to code, allows unbounded expression for people who don't fall into that category, and also allows people to opt out of providing the information.

Your IRB, of course, will need to review this just as they do with all other parts of your survey.