Transgender people are a vibrant part of our society, coming from all walks of life, every corner of the United States, and across the globe. They represent every race, ethnicity, and faith. You likely already know transgender people as classmates, colleagues, neighbors, or friends, whether you realize it or not. With an estimated 1.4 million transgender adults in the U.S. and millions more worldwide, understanding what it means to be transgender is increasingly important.
Defining Transgender: Exploring Gender Identity
At its core, being transgender means that a person’s gender identity – their deeply felt, internal sense of being a man, a woman, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum – is different from the gender they were assigned at birth. The term “trans” is frequently used as a shorter, more inclusive way to say transgender.
When a baby is born, a doctor typically assigns a gender, “male” or “female,” based on their visible sex characteristics. For most individuals, there is alignment between their sex assigned at birth and their gender identity; those assigned male at birth grow up to identify as men, and those assigned female at birth identify as women. However, for transgender people, this is not the case. Their innate sense of self, their gender identity, differs from what was initially presumed at birth. This fundamental difference is what defines being transgender.
To clarify further, a transgender woman is someone who identifies and lives as a woman today but was labeled male at birth. Conversely, a transgender man is someone who identifies and lives as a man today but was labeled female at birth. It’s also important to recognize that gender is not always binary. Some transgender people identify beyond the traditional categories of male and female. They may identify as neither, or as a combination of both. Terms like non-binary and genderqueer are often used by individuals whose gender identity falls outside the strict male/female binary.
(Note: In this context, we use both the adjectives “male” and “female” and the nouns “man” and “woman” to accurately and respectfully refer to a person’s gender identity.)
It’s crucial to understand that everyone has a gender identity, transgender or cisgender (non-transgender). Cisgender individuals rarely contemplate their gender identity because it aligns seamlessly with their sex assigned at birth. For transgender people, this internal exploration and affirmation of gender identity is a central part of their experience.
Being transgender is a deeply personal experience, and there is no single way to be transgender. Just like race, religion, or any other facet of identity, transgender people are diverse and unique. The most effective way to gain a true understanding of the transgender experience is to listen directly to transgender individuals and hear their personal stories.
Recognizing and Understanding Your Gender Identity
The realization of being transgender can occur at any point in a person’s life. For some, this awareness emerges in early childhood, a deep-seated knowing that persists despite external expectations. Others may take longer to recognize and articulate their transgender identity. Some individuals may experience years of feeling out of place or different without fully grasping why, or they might suppress thoughts and feelings about their gender due to fear, shame, or confusion. However, attempts to repress or change one’s gender identity are not only ineffective but can be profoundly damaging to emotional and mental well-being.
As transgender people gain greater visibility in media and within communities, more individuals are finding the language and understanding to identify their own experiences. This increased visibility can create a sense of safety and encourage transgender people to share their truths with others.
For many, the journey of recognizing their transgender identity and deciding to transition is a process of deep introspection. Transgender individuals often face the risk of social stigma, discrimination, and harassment when they share their identity. While some family members, friends, colleagues, classmates, and neighbors may be accepting, others may not be, and the fear of rejection from loved ones is a significant concern for many. Despite these challenges, embracing and living authentically according to one’s gender identity can be a profoundly life-affirming and even life-saving decision.
Thought Exercise: Reflecting on Your Own Gender Experience
For those who are not transgender, grasping the transgender experience can be challenging. To gain a deeper understanding, consider this: Imagine if everyone around you insisted that the gender you’ve always known yourself to be was wrong. How would it feel to wake up one day in a body that others associate with a different gender than your own? What if everyone – doctors, friends, family – perceived you as a man and expected you to behave as a man, while internally you knew you were a woman? Or conversely, if they perceived you as a woman when you knew you were a man? This thought exercise can offer a glimpse into the complexities of gender identity and the importance of self-recognition and affirmation.
Gender Identity vs. Sexual Orientation: Key Differences
It is essential to distinguish between gender identity and sexual orientation, as they are distinct aspects of a person’s being. Gender identity, as discussed, is your internal sense of self as a man, woman, both, neither, or another gender. Sexual orientation, on the other hand, pertains to whom you are romantically, emotionally, and sexually attracted.
Like cisgender people, transgender people experience the full spectrum of sexual orientations. For example, a transgender man (someone living as a man today) may be attracted to men (identifying as gay), women (identifying as straight), or people of multiple genders (bisexual, pansexual, etc.). Understanding this distinction is vital in dispelling misconceptions and recognizing the multifaceted nature of identity.
Transgender vs. Intersex: Understanding the Differences
Confusion sometimes arises between the terms transgender and intersex. Intersex refers to individuals born with sex characteristics, such as chromosomes, hormones, or anatomy, that do not fit typical binary definitions of male or female. These conditions are often apparent at birth. Transgender, in contrast, is about gender identity – a person’s internal sense of being. A transgender person is typically born with sex characteristics that are considered typically male or female, but their gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth.
The determination of sex at birth is often perceived as a simple matter of observing external anatomy. However, biological sex is more complex. It’s estimated that approximately one in 2,000 babies are born with intersex traits, existing on a spectrum between typical male and female presentations. There are diverse intersex conditions; for instance, some individuals may have XY chromosomes but develop female external genitalia and secondary sex characteristics, while others might have XX chromosomes but lack a uterus, or have external anatomy that is not clearly defined as male or female. For deeper insights into the intersex experience, resources like this video and this FAQ from interACT: Advocates for Intersex Youth, offer valuable information.
While an individual can be both transgender and intersex, it is important to note that most transgender people are not intersex, and most intersex people are not transgender. For example, many intersex individuals with XY chromosomes and female anatomy are assigned female at birth, raised as girls, and identify as girls. In many cases, neither they nor their families become aware of their chromosomal variation until later in life. However, some intersex individuals may realize that their assigned gender does not align with their internal sense of self. They may then pursue social and/or medical transitions to live authentically as the gender that resonates with them, similar to the experiences of many transgender people.
Transgender vs. Gender Non-Conforming: Distinguishing Behavior from Identity
Another important distinction is between being transgender and being gender non-conforming. Gender non-conforming describes individuals who do not adhere to societal gender stereotypes. This can manifest in various ways, such as clothing choices, hairstyle, speech patterns, or hobbies that are considered atypical for their assigned gender.
Gender non-conforming people may or may not be transgender. For instance, some cisgender women who identify as women may present in ways considered masculine, such as wearing traditionally masculine clothing or having short hair. The term “tomboy” is often used to describe girls who exhibit gender non-conforming behaviors and interests.
Similarly, transgender people may or may not conform to gender stereotypes associated with their gender identity. A transgender woman may express her gender in traditionally feminine ways, or she may present in a more androgynous or masculine manner. Gender non-conformity is about behavior and expression, while being transgender is about core gender identity.
Gender Identities Beyond Male and Female: Exploring the Non-Binary Spectrum
While many transgender people identify as men or women, it’s crucial to acknowledge that gender identity is not always binary. Some individuals have gender identities that exist outside the traditional male/female categories. They may have a gender that blends aspects of both, a gender that is entirely different, or no gender at all. Gender identity can also be fluid, shifting over time for some individuals.
People whose gender is not exclusively male or female use a variety of terms to describe themselves. Non-binary is a common term, directly referencing the rejection of the gender binary. Genderqueer is another term frequently used within this spectrum. When unsure of someone’s gender identity or preferred terminology, it is always respectful to politely ask them how they identify.
It is important to remember that identifying as transgender does not automatically imply a “third gender.” Most transgender people identify as either men or women and should be recognized and treated as such.
For more in-depth information about non-binary gender identities and how to support non-binary individuals, resources like NCTE’s guide, “Understanding Non-Binary People,” provide valuable insights.
The Ineffectiveness of Conversion Therapy: Accepting Gender Identity
A harmful and ineffective practice known as conversion therapy sometimes targets transgender people with the aim of changing their gender identity to align with their sex assigned at birth. This type of counseling is not only unsuccessful but can cause significant psychological harm. The notion that gender identity can be altered through therapy contradicts the overwhelming consensus within the medical and psychological communities. Attempts to force someone to change their core identity can lead to severe and lasting negative consequences, including depression, substance abuse, self-hatred, and increased risk of suicide.
Recognizing the dangers of conversion therapy, a growing number of states have enacted laws prohibiting licensed therapists from attempting to change a minor’s gender identity. However, it is important to note that seeking therapy to navigate the complexities of transitioning, cope with stigma and discrimination, and make informed decisions about coming out is beneficial and common for many transgender people. Supportive counseling focuses on well-being and affirmation, not on changing someone’s fundamental identity.
Understanding Gender Transition: A Personal Journey
Gender transition is the process through which a transgender person begins to live in accordance with their gender identity, rather than the gender they were assigned at birth. While not all transgender people choose to transition, many do at some point in their lives. Transition is a deeply personal journey and varies significantly from person to person.
The steps involved in gender transition can be social, legal, and/or medical. Social transition may include changes in clothing, appearance, chosen name, and pronouns (such as “she,” “he,” or “they”). Legal transition can involve updating identification documents, such as driver’s licenses and passports, to reflect their gender identity. Medical transition may encompass hormone therapy and surgeries to align physical characteristics with gender identity. It is important to note that not all transgender people desire or have access to all forms of transition.
Transitioning can be a crucial step for many transgender people to live healthy and fulfilling lives. There is no prescribed set of steps to “complete” a transition; it is about what is right and necessary for each individual. All transgender people deserve dignity and respect, regardless of the specific steps they take, or do not take, in their transition.
Legal and Identity Document Changes During Transition
For many transgender people, legal changes are a significant part of their transition. This often includes changing their name and updating the gender marker on official identification documents to reflect their gender identity.
While not all transgender people pursue these legal changes, for many, it is a critical step. Having identity documents that accurately reflect their gender is essential for navigating daily life. Inaccurate IDs can create barriers to employment, education, banking, travel, and other essential aspects of life. Furthermore, transgender people presenting identification that does not match their gender presentation can face harassment, humiliation, and even violence.
The types of documents transgender people may seek to update include:
- Driver’s license
- Social Security card
- Passport
- Bank accounts and records
- Credit cards
- Paychecks and other job-related documents
- Leases
- Medical records
- Birth certificate
- Academic records
Unfortunately, navigating these legal processes can be challenging. Updating identity documents is often expensive, bureaucratic, and complex, making it inaccessible for many. Some states still impose requirements such as proof of surgery or court orders to change a gender marker. The process can be time-consuming and costly, sometimes amounting to hundreds of dollars. As a result, studies show that only a small percentage of transgender people who have transitioned have been able to update all of their IDs.
Organizations like NCTE are actively working to modernize these outdated and burdensome requirements. Many states are increasingly adopting more accessible and straightforward policies for name and gender marker changes, recognizing the importance of accurate and respectful documentation for transgender individuals.
For detailed information on updating driver’s licenses and birth certificates in specific states and territories, as well as federal ID updates, NCTE’s ID Documents Center is a valuable resource.
Medical Treatments in Transgender Transition: Affirming Healthcare
Some, but not all, transgender people seek medical treatments as part of their transition to align their bodies with their gender identity and improve their overall health and well-being.
While transition-related medical care is essential and often life-saving for many transgender individuals, it is crucial to emphasize that not all transgender people require medical interventions to transition or live fulfilling lives. Transition is a diverse and personal process, and medical transition is just one aspect for some.
The types of medical care sought by transgender people are varied and individualized. Decisions about medical transition should always be made in consultation with healthcare providers and based on individual needs and goals. Medical options may include:
- Hair growth or removal treatments (electrolysis, laser hair removal, etc.)
- Hormone therapy (testosterone for transgender men, estrogen for transgender women)
- Surgeries, which can encompass facial feminization or masculinization surgery, chest surgery (often referred to as “top surgery”), and genital surgery (often referred to as “bottom surgery”).
Despite the fact that medical transition is not universally necessary, the medical community overwhelmingly recognizes its medical necessity for many transgender people. Major medical organizations in the United States affirm that transition-related medical care is safe, effective, and medically necessary, and advocate for its accessibility for all who need it. Unfortunately, insurance companies often deny coverage for this essential care, despite legal protections in many jurisdictions.
Understanding Gender Dysphoria: Distress and Affirmation
For some transgender people, the incongruence between their gender assigned at birth and their gender identity can cause significant emotional distress. Gender dysphoria is the clinical term used to describe this distress when it is clinically significant and impacts daily life and well-being.
It is important to understand that not all transgender people experience gender dysphoria. Being transgender itself is not a medical condition. Many transgender individuals do not experience clinically significant distress related to their gender identity.
For those who do experience gender dysphoria, affirming their gender identity is often the most effective way to alleviate this distress. This affirmation can encompass social, legal, and/or medical steps, such as expressing their gender through clothing and grooming, using a chosen name and pronouns, and, for some, pursuing medical transition. Leading medical organizations recognize that living authentically in accordance with one’s gender identity is a safe, effective, and medically necessary treatment for gender dysphoria.
While being transgender is not inherently an illness, transgender people often face significant physical and mental health challenges due to societal discrimination and stigma. Many live in societies that invalidate their deeply held identities, leading to rejection from families, job loss, homelessness, lack of support, harassment, and violence. Transgender youth are particularly vulnerable to rejection and abuse in homes, schools, and communities. These experiences can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. However, these conditions are not caused by being transgender; they are a consequence of societal intolerance and discrimination. Transgender people who are accepted and supported within their communities are more likely to thrive and live healthy, fulfilling lives.
The Importance of Transgender Equality: Dignity and Respect for All
Transgender people deserve to be treated with the same dignity and respect as anyone else. They should have the right to live authentically and be respected for who they are. However, transgender individuals frequently encounter pervasive discrimination and mistreatment in workplaces, schools, families, and communities.
For example, compared to the general population, transgender people are disproportionately more likely to experience:
- Job discrimination and denial of employment
- Harassment and bullying in educational settings
- Homelessness and extreme poverty
- Eviction and denial of housing or access to shelters
- Denial of essential medical care
- Incarceration and targeting by law enforcement
- Abuse and violence
For detailed statistics and data on these forms of discrimination, the National Transgender Discrimination Survey provides comprehensive information.
Living free from fear of discrimination and violence, and experiencing support and affirmation, are fundamental to the health, safety, and well-being of transgender people. Positive changes in laws, policies, and societal attitudes are enabling more transgender people to live fuller, safer, and healthier lives than ever before.
The transgender rights movement is part of a broader struggle for social justice, echoing the long history of marginalized groups working to achieve civil rights and equal opportunities. The challenges faced by transgender people are interconnected with other forms of discrimination. Transgender people of color experience compounded discrimination due to racism, and transgender people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face economic disparities and classism. Organizations like NCTE advocate for a social justice approach to transgender equality that addresses all forms of discrimination and promotes a more equitable society for everyone.
