The difference between considering a subject as mythology and considering it as an element in a way of life has been pondered by the Otherkin community at length and since its beginnings. No consensus opinion exists within the Otherkin community on the implications of Otherkin as identity and a component as a way of life. With the varied expressions Kinness can take, it is a common view that this is appropriate.

There have been attempts to establish guidelines and even rules, but most of these have acknowledged the variety inherent in the Otherkin phenomenon. Those which haven't appear to have fallen by the wayside in terms of their general acceptance.

Contained in this section are entries on particular Otherkin species and kind associations as they relate to the life and identity of people, rather than only as mythology. It is significant to note that here the differences between general mythology and the personal mythology of many who consider themselves Otherkin is more clearly illustrated. The common mythological elf, unicorn, or dragon (not to mention wide array of other beings) may not bear much resemblance beyond surface imagery or a handful of traits, to the self-image or existence of a particular Otherkin individual.