Issues of Transsexualism - Research Paper Example

? Transsexual Transsexual Introduction Transsexualism refers to the condition in which someone identifies with a gender opposing or not traditionally related to their assigned sex (Ekins & King, 2006). On a lighter note, transsexualism is a condition whereby an individual denies the sex they were born in and acknowledges themselves as the opposite sex. A medical intervention can be made when an individual faces discomforts due to a desire to be an associate of the opposite sex or when someone endures impaired distress of functioning due to gender identification. Transsexualism is disapproved in numerous parts of this world, but has become more broadly acknowledged in the Western tradition as from the mid 20th century, concurrently with the sexual revolution, as well as with the establishment of sex reassignment surgery (Ekins & King, 2006). Negative, unoptimistic views towards transsexualism and prejudice normally accompany a number of cultural values or religious beliefs. There are traditions, which have no obscurity accepting individuals who switch gender. In fact, they hold them with high standards such as promoting them to leaders of the Two-Spirit individuals found amongst a number of Native American tribal groups (Ekins & King, 2006). The National Center for Transgender Equality estimates that one percent of the United States population is a transsexual population (Garcia & Swaab, 2008). It can be extremely wearisome and scary knowing that someone’s is different, but does not know why. Comprehending the nature of these distinctions can feel both frightening and empowering at the same time. Many transsexuals live in a “closeted” world hiding from who they are and convincing themselves that their thoughts are provoked by an over-active imagination. Even though, not everyone might support transsexuals, it is vital that they acknowledge and respect who they are, regardless of what others think. Diagnosis Transsexualism can be seen in the two main diagnostic manuals utilized by mental health experts globally, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). ICD defines transsexualism as an urge to live as a member of the opposite gender and still be acknowledged as a member of that sex, normally accompanied by a feeling of uneasiness with one’s God-given sex. APA does not differentiate between transsexualism and sex identity disorder, and explains transvestic fetishism as a distinct fact, which might co-occur with transsexualism. The APA diagnosis needs four components: An insistence or desire that someone is of the opposite biological sex. Proof of constant discomfort with the person’s biological sex The individual is not intersex Proof of clinically important impairment or distress in social or work life. Process of Diagnosis The recent diagnosis of for transsexuals who offer themselves for mental treatment is gender identity disorder (APA, 2000). This diagnostic label is normally vital to acquire sex reassignment psychotherapy with health insurance coverage. The labeling of gender identity disorders as psychological illness is not an authorization for discrimination such people. It does not also permit for the deprivation of transsexuals’ civil rights. Nevertheless, some individuals diagnosed with the disorder do not wish for sex reassignment therapy at all (Green, 2004). Whereas some consider that formal diagnosis assist in stopping discrimination, others consider that it simply adds stigma, feeling that the diagnosis is equal to claiming something is wrong with transsexuals (Green, 2004). The management of "gender identity disorder" is perceived as an insulting and inappropriate endeavor to some transsexuals, and might be regarded a causal matter in cases of harm occurring to transsexuals due to discrimination and prejudice when they are deprived of their own civil rights. A lot of transsexuals have requested the APA to eliminate Gender Identity Disorder from their guide (APA, 2000). These transsexuals feel that some mental health experts are being thoughtless by classifying transsexualism as "a disorder", instead of as an inborn attribute (APA, 2000). Relation to Gender Roles Transsexuals refer to themselves as trans-men or -women depending to the sex they desire (Green, 2004). They normally desire to develop a lasting gender role as an affiliate of the sex with which they categorize. Some transsexuals opt for medical interventions a measurement of the process of showcasing their opted gender (Michel, 2001). These medically- or therapeutic-based, physical changes are together known as sex reassignment therapy, and might incorporate male-to-female or female-to-male hormone replacement therapy (Michel, 2001). Surgeries might comprise of genital surgery such as sex reassignment surgery or orchiectomy, chest surgery such as breast augmentation or top surgery, or, with reference to trans-women, facial surgery such as facial feminization surgery or trachea shave. The whole process of changing from one social gender presentation and physical sex to another is normally known as transition, and often takes a couple of years (Green, 2004). Not all transsexuals go through a physical transition. A number of them find reasons not to, for instance, the cost of surgery, medical states that make surgery dangerous, as well as the risk of therapeutic complications (Green, 2004). Others might not identify robustly with another twofold gender role. Some might find balance during the procedure irrespective of whether or not they are binary-identified. Many transsexuals, in addition to binary-identified transsexuals, do not go through genital surgery since they are easy with their individual genitals, or since they are worried about nerve break, as well as the likely loss of sexual orgasm and pleasure. This is particularly in reference to trans-men, who are displeased with today’s state of phalloplasty, which is normally extremely expensive and does lead to a full erection of the penis (Green, 2004). Some transsexuals live heterosexual gender roles and lifestyles, whereas others identify as bisexual, gay or lesbian (Brown & Chloe, 2007). A lot of transsexuals discover that a change takes place in their sexual course as they go through transition. They opt for the language of how they denote their sexual view rooted in their sex identity, and not their biological sex, even though others still find recognition with their society; for instance, many trans-men are more conversant with the lesbian community, and identify themselves as lesbian in spite of their male personality (Brown & Chloe, 2007). Others lesbians are eager to become romantically or sexually mixed up with trans-men; some gay men are keen to do a similar thing with trans-women; where both groups normally would not have sexual or romantic interactions with members of a different sex (Brown & Chloe, 2007). Origins and History Gender was originally utilized a linguistic term. In numerous languages, words can be regarded feminine and masculine depending on the context it is being used (Meyerowitz, 2009). For a couple of centuries, a certain group of individuals have considered that they would rather be affiliates of the opposite sex instead of their biologically granted sex. Others have gone an extra mile to fully live as associates of the opposite sex (Meyerowitz, 2009). Since the beginning of the 20th Century, individuals who consider that they have a mistaken body have utilized the medical world to assist them make their physical bodies equal their thoughts. A Danish artist, Einar Wegener, who longed to be a female in the 1920’s and persuaded a medical surgeon to turn him physically to a female, was one of the initial cases to be talked about in the media concerning transsexualism (H2g2, 2010). In addition to removing his penis, Wegener had uterine and ovarian tissue set in her. However, this proved to be critical and she passed away shortly the surgery. By 1952, when GI George Jorgensen, an American citizen, chose to become Christine, he found medical surgeons in Scandinavia who were skilled and well acquainted with the medical procedure (translation) (H2g2, 2010). When he wrote a letter to his parents to tell them that he had not turned into their daughter and not their son, they responded with an encouraging letter of how they still loved and cherished her as their child. George/Christine went back to America as happy woman, eager to start a fresh life (H2g2, 2010). However, she came to a media that was obsessed with her history, but she still settled and became engaged twice. Unfortunately, Christine was only capable of earning a living singing 'I Enjoy Being a Girl' in clubs, as well as giving interviews to magazines and newspapers and other media houses (H2g2, 2010). In the early 90s, the medical vocation started to acknowledge that not every man or woman who was born male or female respectively was attracted to women and men (Meyerowitz, 2009). This is also the period which gays and lesbians started to be recognized in the media hoping that they could live together just as normal couples. More and more individuals who considered that they could not fit into either of the two sexes considered that it was not important for them to, and; therefore, they started to identify themselves as transsexuals. Legal advancement was made in the United Kingdom in 1999 when a marker case in the European Court made it unlawful to discriminate against an individual on grounds of their transsexuality (Meyerowitz, 2009). Through this law, many transsexuals were able to stay in their jobs even though transforming from one sex to another. Today, in the United Kingdom, gender on driving licenses and passports could be changed (Meyerowitz, 2009). The only credential, which cannot be altered, is the birth certificate. This has brought with it the right to marry, as well as to adopt a child with a spouse of the opposite gender. After the recent European Court ruling that the denial to change birth certificates is illegal, it should soon be doable to attain full legal equality. Today, someone transitioning from one sex to another does not endure the hardships, which a person would have endured 10 or 20 years ago (Meyerowitz, 2009). Many doctors are fascinated and supportive of the act, if not well-informed of the condition. Also, a lot of people are supportive and the transsexual’s family comes to be accommodating with time. Institutions such as banks are friendly and understanding when it comes to altering paperwork. Causes of Transsexualism Biological and mental causes for transsexualism have suggested by many researchers with proof inclining towards genetic and prenatal causes. One such suggested cause is associated with the BSTc, an element of the brain’s basal ganglia which is influenced by prenatal androgens (Garcia & Swaab, 2008). Current studies confirm that the BSTc of male-to-female transsexuals are related to those of cisgender females whose assigned sex and mental sex identity are similar (Iyall & Leavy, 2008). Nevertheless, those of both homosexual and heterosexual men were alike to each other, but diverse from those of females (both trans- and cis-sexual) (Iyall & Leavy, 2008). People’s endocrine and genetic equipment brings in either an insensitive or fertile ground on which the incorrect conditioning, as well as a psychic trauma can grow and extend into such a basic variance, which a difference like transsexualism can occur (Iyall & Leavy, 2008). Another research proposes that transsexuality might have a genetic element (Michel, 2001). There is substantial proof that prenatal contact to anti-miscarriage drugs (endocrine-disrupting) like diethylstilbestrol (DES) might also be optimistically related transsexualism, even though research in this region has yet to develop a firm fundamental link. Some individuals consider study into the "causes" of transsexualism to be derived from the idea that it is a pathology, a theory, which is abandoned by many transsexuals (Michel, 2001). Some consider the state as a kind of intersexuality, and endorse research into likely causes, having faith that it will confirm the theory of a biological cause, and; therefore, ease social stigma through showing that it is not an illusion, a paraphilia or a political statement (Michel, 2001). It is vital to note that social stigma has a vital role to play in the growth of and devotion to both perceptions. Sex Reassignment Therapy Sex reassignment therapy, abbreviated as SRT, is an umbrella phrase for all medical interventions associated with sex reassignment of both intersexual and transgender individuals. Even though, SRT is, at times, referred to as "gender reassignment", those who apply the word "sex" to explain a person’s "gender" and biology to express their social role and personal identity consider this practice to be misleading (Stryker, 2006). The procedure of shifting from one sex presentation to another is normally called transition. People make diverse choices regarding sex reassignment therapy, which can consist of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which modifies secondary sex traits; sex reassignment surgery, which alters primary sex traits; lasting hair removal and facial feminization surgery for trans-women (Stryker, 2006). Transsexuals who transition normally change their legal names, social gender roles, as well as their legal sex designation. To get sex reassignment therapy, transsexuals are generally needed to go through a mental evaluation and obtain a diagnosis of gender identity disorder compliant with the Standards of Care (Stryker, 2006). This assessment is normally escorted by counseling on matters of adjustment to the needed gender role, risks and effects of medical treatments, and, at times, also by mental therapy. The Standards of Care are planned as guidelines, not inflexible regulations, and are meant to make sure that transsexuals are well informed and in sound mental health (Stryker, 2006). It is also meant to discourage people from transitioning derived from unrealistic expectations. Psychological Treatment Psychological methods, which try to alter sex identity to one deemed appropriate for the individual’s assigned sex are normally ineffective (Swaab, 2004). The broadly acknowledged Standards of Care recognize that, at times, the only sensible and effective course of healing for transsexual people is to be taken through sex reassignment therapy. The urge for treatment is stressed by the high rate of psychological health issues, including anxiety, depression and a number of additions, in addition to a higher suicide rate amongst untreated transsexuals than compared to the general population. These issues might be alleviated through a change of gender role or physical traits (Swaab, 2004). Many transsexual activists, as well as many caregivers, argue that these issues are not normally associated with the gender identity problems themselves, but the cultural and social reactions to gender-variant people. Some transsexual individuals rebuff the counseling, which is suggested by the Standards of Care since they do not deem their gender identity to be a mental issue (Swaab, 2004). Legal and Social Aspects Laws concerning transformations to the lawful status of transsexuals are unique from country to country (Veale, 2008). Some nations permit a citizen to change their name and, at times, their legal sex in order to echo their gender identity. In the United States, some states permit complete replacement or amendments of the original birth certificates (Veale, 2008). Other states conceal previous records against all apart from court orders so as to guard the transsexual's confidentiality. In many areas, it is impossible to alter birth records or any other official designations of gender, even though changes are occurring. Asmodelle documented her tough struggle to amend her Australian birth certificate, as we as passport, even though there were other people who were influential in changing laws, and; therefore, achieving more recognition for transsexuals in general (Veale, 2008). Medical intervention for transsexuals is available in most Western nations. Nevertheless transsexual people dispute the "normative" gender duties of many traditions and normally encounter considerable prejudice and hatred. The movie Boys Don't Cry records the case of Brandon Teena, a trans-man who was raped and killed after his condition was exposed (More & Whittle, 2005). Projects such as Remembering the Dead developed by Gwendolyn Smith maintain records of numerous cases of transsexuals being killed by rowdy people. In the U.S., 20th November has been set as a "Day of Remembrance" for the individuals killed due to their transsexuality claim (More & Whittle, 2005). Some individuals who have changed their gender role get into customary social institutions such as parenting and marriage. They, at times, provide foster care for, or adopt, children because comprehensive sex reassignment therapy unavoidably leads to infertility. Some transsexuals have children prior to transition (Pepper & Lorah, 2008). Professional journalistic style guides, medical-practitioner manuals and LGBT promotion groups advise the acceptance by others of transsexualism, as well as pronouns recognized by the individual in question, comprising of current references to the transsexual’s past. Friends and family members who might be confused concerning pronoun usage or the names associated to sex are often coached in correct pronoun usage, either by experts or other individuals conversant with pronoun application as it relates to transsexuals or by transsexuals themselves (Swaab, 2004). At times, transsexuals have to correct their family members or friends on numerous occasions before they start to use the proper words consistently. Purposeful mis-gendering is considered as a type of transphobia. Both "gender identity disorders" and "transsexualism" are purposely excluded from the Americans with Disabilities Act. Gender dysphoria is also excluded (Pepper & Lorah, 2008). Employment Issues Transsexuals can experience hard times maintaining a job. A majority of them consider it better to remain in a job during transition so as to cater for the expenses of transition and living. Nevertheless, job prejudice against transsexuals is rampant and a lot of them are sacked when they come out and claim to be transsexuals (Pepper & Lorah, 2008). Transsexuals should choose whether to search for new employment when they make their social change or transition at their current job. Other problems, which transsexuals endure in employment, are being afraid of workmates disapprovingly reacting to their change (Swaab, 2004). Finding a job can be particularly hard for individuals in mid-transition. Laws on name, as well as gender changes, in numerous nations make it hard for transsexuals to hide their status from their companies (Pepper & Lorah, 2008). In numerous nations, laws grant protection from job discrimination derived from gender expression or identity, comprising or feminine men and masculine women. A rising number of organizations are incorporating "gender expression and identity" in their non-prejudice rules (Pepper & Lorah, 2008). Stealth Some transsexuals opt to live as affiliates of their target sex devoid of being public about it. This method is referred to as stealth (Pepper & Lorah, 2008). However, other individuals consider that they have a duty to be open concerning their past so as to extend the cause of civil rights and freedom for the LGBT community. There are cases of some individuals having been denied medical intervention upon unearthing of their trans-status, whether it was disclosed by the patient or the doctor (Swaab, 2004). For instance, Leslie Feinberg, a transgender activist, was once denied surgery for endocarditis. He was presenting as a male, but instead had female genital anatomy. He almost died after being denied the surgery. His case shows one of the countless hazards of having one's trans-status disclosed (Valentine, 2007). Tyra Hunter, also another transgender activist, passed away after being denied medical care by emergency room physicians and paramedics after she was wounded in a fatal car acccident. Conclusion It might sound absurd that one wants to change their assigned gender to the opposite sex. Also, people can go arguing for ages that the endeavor is wrong as it sound and goes against the Sole creator and still not find a solution that satisfies all. It is not in people position to judge others, and; therefore, transsexuals should be left to live best as they desire. It is our duty as humans to endorse our fellow brothers and sisters, as well as their views towards life, in order to make the world a better place. This paper has presented a summarized version of transsexuals in reference to topics such as their history, major cases, workplace and society issues and treatment methods among others. However, further research in the matter is advised, one that seeks to help the normal person understand the stand of transsexuals in order to ease their discrimination. This is a topic of huge significance, which might be assisted with more research. References American Psychiatric Association (APA). (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (4th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. Brown, M. L., & Chloe R. (2007). True selves: Understanding transsexualism – for families, friends, coworkers, and helping professionals. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Ekins, R., & King, D. (2006). The transgender phenomenon. London: Sage. Garcia, F. A., & Swaab, D. F. (2008). A sex difference in the hypothalamic uncinate nucleus: relationship to gender identity. Brain, 131(12), 3132-3146. Green, J. (2004). Becoming a visible man. Nashville, TN: Vanderbilt University Press. H2g2. (2010). Transsexualism - A recent history. Retrieved from http://h2g2.com/approved_entry/A830413 Hood, E. (2005). Are EDCs blurring issues of gender? Environmental Health Perspectives, 113(10), 670–677. Iyall S., & Leavy, P. (2008). Hybrid identities: Theoretical and empirical examinations. Leiden, Netherlands: IDC Publishers. Meyerowitz, J. J. (2009). How sex changed: A history of transsexuality in the United States. New York: Oxford University Press. Michel, A. (2001). A psycho-endocrinological overview of transsexualism. European Journal of Endocrinol, 145(4), 365–376. More, K., & Whittle, S. (2005). Reclaiming genders (2nd ed.). New York: Continuum Books. Pepper, S., & Lorah, P. (2008). Career issues and workplace considerations for the transsexual community: Bridging a gap of knowledge for career counselors and mental health care providers. The Career Development Quarterly, 56(4), 330-343. Stryker, S. (2006). Introduction. The Transgender Studies Reader. New York: Routledge. Swaab, D. F. (2004). Sexual differentiation of the human brain: relevance for gender identity, transsexualism and sexual orientation. Gynecological Endocrinology, 19(6), 301-312. Valentine, D. (2007). Imagining transgender: An ethnography of a category. Trinity, North Carolina: Duke University. Veale, J. F. (2008). Prevalence of transsexualism among New Zealand passport holders. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 42(10), 887-889. Read More