The Science of Being Transgender

The Science of Being Transgender

According to the APA Style guide, the term “transsexual” is largely outdated, but some people identify with it; this term should be used only for an individual who specifically claims it. While the term “transsexual” appears multiple times throughout this document, APA’s Committee on Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity is undertaking a systematic review of its use along with other terms. In the meantime, please refer to the Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming People (PDF, 472KB) for more up-to-date language regarding transgender and gender nonconforming people.

Transgender is an umbrella term for persons whose gender identity, gender expression or behavior does not conform to that typically associated with the sex to which they were assigned at birth. Gender identity refers to a person’s internal sense of being male, female or something else; gender expression refers to the way a person communicates gender identity to others through behavior, clothing, hairstyles, voice or body characteristics. “Trans” is sometimes used as shorthand for “transgender.” While transgender is generally a good term to use, not everyone whose appearance or behavior is gender-nonconforming will identify as a transgender person. The ways that transgender people are talked about in popular culture, academia and science are constantly changing, particularly as individuals’ awareness, knowledge and openness about transgender people and their experiences grow.

What is the difference between sex and gender?

Sex is assigned at birth, refers to one’s biological status as either male or female, and is associated primarily with physical attributes such as chromosomes, hormone prevalence, and external and internal anatomy. Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for boys and men or girls and women. These influence the ways that people act, interact, and feel about themselves. While aspects of biological sex are similar across different cultures, aspects of gender may differ.

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Transgender individuals have been a part of human history for thousands of years, but it is only in recent years that science has begun to shed light on the biological and psychological factors that contribute to transgender identity. While the exact causes of transgender identity are not fully understood, there are several areas of research that have provided insight into this complex phenomenon.

Brain Structure and Hormones

One of the most well-known areas of research into the science of being transgender is the study of brain structure and hormones. Studies have shown that transgender individuals may have brain structures that are more similar to those of their preferred gender than their biological sex. For example, a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that male-to-female transgender individuals had brain structures that were more similar to those of cisgender females than cisgender males.

Hormones also play a role in transgender identity. During fetal development, the presence or absence of certain hormones can influence the development of the genitals and other physical characteristics. For example, exposure to higher levels of testosterone during fetal development can result in the development of male genitalia. However, some researchers believe that hormonal imbalances or differences during fetal development could also contribute to the development of transgender identity.

Genetics

Research into the genetics of transgender identity is still in its early stages, but some studies have suggested that there may be genetic factors that contribute to transgender identity. For example, a study published in the journal Nature Communications found that certain genetic variants were more common in transgender individuals than in cisgender individuals.

Psychological Factors

While many studies have focused on the biological factors that contribute to transgender identity, it is important to note that psychological factors also play a role. For example, gender dysphoria, which is the distress or discomfort that some transgender individuals feel due to the mismatch between their gender identity and biological sex, is a psychological factor that can contribute to transgender identity.

Additionally, some researchers believe that social and cultural factors also play a role in the development of transgender identity. For example, societal norms and expectations around gender can influence how individuals understand and express their gender identity.

Conclusion

The science of being transgender is a complex and multifaceted area of research. While there is still much to be learned about the biological and psychological factors that contribute to transgender identity, studies have provided some insight into this phenomenon. By continuing to study and understand the science of being transgender, we can better support and advocate for transgender individuals and work towards creating a more inclusive society.