Transgender Trauma

Where did the idea come from that it is acceptable to hate or judge someone because of their gender identity? I spoke with a transwoman today who fears leaving her home since she has been verbally attacked and threatened with physical harm. She has also been criticized by others who are trans because she has not embraced a gender binary. A few years ago, she began the transition to what she perceives as her true self and not the gender assigned at birth as male. She had lived as a man for much of her life, married and had three children; all of whom she loves and who are supportive. She is a professional who lost her job, once she came out and is now seeking other employment, albeit with trepidation. Like many, she has internalized transphobia. As self-loving as a person may be, it is often challenging to stand up to disapproval at least and threats on safety and life itself at most. It is also difficult when one doesn’t meet gender norms, in appearance as is so for this person. Compounded by the increased likelihood of physical danger either by random strangers or those the person knows, this is not a metamorphosis to be taken lightly. There is also a high suicide rate among the population. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and The Williams Institute conducted a study regarding suicidality. What they discovered was staggering. Suicide attempts among trans men (46%) and trans women (42%) were slightly higher than the full sample (41%). Cross-dressers assigned ...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Bullying Men's Issues Psychotherapy Stories Sexuality Trauma Women's Issues cis-gender discrimination gender binary gender dysphoria Gender Identity gender norms Gender Role Harassment mis-gender Suicide Transgender trans Source Type: blogs