Transphobia, simply put, refers to any expression of fear or hatred directed at transgender, non-binary, or gender-nonconforming people.
Like other forms of discrimination and prejudice, transphobia often stems from a lack of understanding and insight into:
- what it means to be transgender, non-binary or gender non-conforming
- the many careless actions and words that can cause harm
Although transphobia tends to decrease as gender awareness increases, it remains a major problem in some communities. It doesn't just cause distress by invalidating someone's identity, although that's bad enough. It also often leads to insults, discrimination or hateful behavior.
Ready to learn more about recognizing, avoiding and preventing transphobia? You have come to the right place. Read on for a detailed explanation, examples, and tips for handling a mistake with compassion and grace.
Transphobia definition:
- stigmatizes trans people
- deny their identity
- treats them as unequal or less than human
People usually learn about transphobic beliefs from parents, educators, and religious teachings. These beliefs may appear in more obvious forms, such as mockery. But transphobia is not always obviously pejorative.
Even skepticism around the idea that gender occurs on a spectrum can quickly snowball down the slope towards discrimination and invalidation of identity.
A person also does not need to put these behaviors or beliefs into words for them to be considered transphobia.
Maybe they don't see trans people as "real" men or women. Or they're like, "I have no problem with trans people, but I would never date a trans person." »
Transphobia vs cissexism:
- saying trans people are “confused”
- separate people into binary gender categories
- Insisting Non-Binary Teen 'Just Wants Attention'
- ask about “preferred” pronouns
- refuse to use non-binary pronouns
Common behaviors and scenarios:
Also understand that a person can also express transphobic ideas unintentionally. These words and actions can still cause pain, even if they weren't meant negatively.
Many trans, non-binary, or questioning people face frequent (often daily) discrimination and inappropriate questions or jokes directed at their appearance, genitalia, and personal life.
Another type of transphobia? To ask someone: "But what is your something true name ? You know, the one your parents gave you.
This is called deadnaming.
Trans people also face a lot of discrimination and stigma in school, work, or in health care situations.
They could, for example:
- being harassed or fired for being trans
- earn a lower salary and receive fewer (or no) opportunities for raises and promotions
- regularly experience sexual abuse
- dealing with the curiosity and judgment of healthcare professionals, instead of compassion
A real problem:
Transphobia can cause persistent mental and emotional distress, whether it takes the form of prying questions, jokes, or outright hateful words and acts. Not only does this leave many people afraid to share their identity and be themselves, but it can also have a huge impact on other areas of life.
Transphobia often leaves people feeling isolated, exhausted, and hopeless. People may wonder if it is safe to leave home to run errands, for example, or be afraid to communicate with friends and family.
Systemic transphobia can prevent people from getting the medical care they need, which can complicate existing health issues and have life-threatening consequences.
Other symptoms of transphobia and identity-based discrimination include:
- increased anxiety
- chronic stress
- post-traumatic stress
- trough
- suicidal thoughts
How to determine if you have crossed a line:
If someone tells you that something you said was transphobic, it's best to take their word for it. Maybe you didn't mean to discriminate, but the impact can often be quite different from the intention you had in mind.
Even remarks that you might consider compliments or questions that you might consider innocent can be demeaning and hurtful:
- “OK, yes, you are a woman, but really, you are a man. »
- “Wow, I never would have guessed you were born a girl!” »
- “So, how did your surgery go?” May I see? »
A good guideline might be to ask yourself if you would say the same thing to someone who isn't trans. If not, you'll probably want to apologize and avoid similar comments or questions in the future.
What to do if you have crossed a line:
People make mistakes and say hurtful things, both accidentally and on purpose. What is important to realize is that words and actions can cause pain and distress, even when they do not come from a feeling of hate.
Perhaps you have continued a long argument defending the sex assigned at birth as the only factor that determines gender. Or maybe you've shown a little too much interest in your friend's sex life and feel embarrassed to objectify him.
Did you accidentally misinterpret someone? Here's how to handle it:
To avoid:
- justify your actions
- Make excuses
- insisting that you did nothing wrong
Instead, offer a sincere apology:
- Begin with "I'm sorry". Don't follow with “but”.
- It's okay to give an explanation, like "I didn't realize what deadnaming was or how painful it could be." »
- But skip the excuses, like "Well, it's so hard to remember a new name." »
An apology means nothing without positive change. Going forward, commit to improving yourself by learning about examples of transphobia to learn about hurtful remarks and assumptions to avoid.
Transphobia that stems from ignorance often diminishes when you take the time to learn what it means to be transgender and recognize that you most likely know trans people in your daily life.
Thanks for taking the time to read this article and don't forget. Accept yourself, accept others as they want to accept themselves and live happily. ❤️
