Coming Out and Crossing Over

Abstract

Drawing on data from interviews with 65 masculine-to-feminine transgenderists, the authors examine the coming-out experiences of transgendered individuals. Drawing on the literature that shows gender to be an inherent component of the social infrastructure that at an individual level is accomplished in interaction with others, they demonstrate that interactional challenges to gender are insufficient to challenge the system of gender. Whereas many transgenderists believe that their actions and identities are radical challenges to the binary system of gender, in fact, the majority of such individuals reinforce and reify the system they hope to change.

Cognitive and interpersonal identity processes related to mid-life gender transitioning in transgender women

“…Several models have focused specifically on the stages of identity development for trans women. Gagné et al (1997) interviewed 65 trans women, ages 24-68 years, about their identity processes and described the process of coming out (e.g. noting early experiences, how others responded to participants upon coming out, and resolving identity).…”

“…Although use of gender-affirming medical procedures may be a salient part of transgender identity development for many individuals (Gagné et al, 1997), some individuals may choose not to use these procedures for a variety of reasons.…”

“…H. Meyer, 2003). Although two studies have examined transgender identity development among trans women (Factor & Rothblum, 2008;Gagné, Tewksbury, & McGaughey, 1997), more research is needed with this subgroup of the transgender population. In addition, understanding cognitive and interpersonal identity processes related to gender transitioning, such as feeling "othered," can enhance cultural competency for counselors working with transgender individuals.…”

Trans men and friendships: A Foucauldian discourse analysis

“…Gagne and her colleagues interviewed 65 MtF transgender people about their gender experiences throughout their lives (Gagne et al, 1997;Gagne and Tewksbury, 1998 FtM's with lesbian women's stories of identity, because many FtMs identify as lesbian women at some point. The study indicates that lesbian friendships are particularly important, because they can help FtMs define who they are not.…”

Living Positive: Life in Community Among Puerto Rican Men Living with HIV in Boston

“…Many times, disclosure took place in environments of confinement taking advantage of the emotional safety provided by close-knit social spaces (Morrison et al 2005 The experiences described by these men are similar to the "coming out of the closet" or "coming out" stories of disclosure among gays (Zimmerman 1984;D'Augelli and Garnets 1995;Gagne et al 1997). …”