Possible Causes for the Increase In Transgenderism

     Research shows that many factors are likely at play in the increase of the number of people coming out as Transgender.  Let's explore a few of them.

  1. Awareness and Acceptance:  Greater societal acceptance and visibility mean more people feel comfortable coming out as Transgender.  This phenomenon is not new.  Once upon a time, it was absolute taboo to be a homosexual.  Eventually, society became more open to the fact that homosexuals walked among us (that's the awareness).  Acceptance came in time, especially after laws were introduced  turning acts of violence against gays into a hate crime.  It's been said that you can't legislate morality, and I very much agree with that, however, it seems you can legislate acceptance.  Now, I'm not saying that being gay is immoral.  I don't think it ever was, in spite of what the Bible says.  But, hate is immoral and, in spite of the law, it still exists.  You just can't act on it.
  2. Support Networks:  Access to supportive networks and mental health resources has increased.  This is not to say that being Transgender is a mental illness, although far-right talking heads continue to expound the opposite.  But, gender dysphoria, which is the phenomenon believed to be the cause of this trend, has been recognized by the psychiatric community as a disorder.  Not necessarily a mental illness, but a disorder.  I want to do some research on this for a later post.
  3. Recognition and Diagnosis:  Medical and psychological understanding of gender identity has improved, leading to more recognition and support.  However, I don't think there is enough recognition of the truth that gender (i.e. masculine and feminine) and sex (i.e. male and female) are not the same!  Until this truth is reintroduced to society and becomes universal knowledge once again, the transgender phenomenon will continue to be misunderstood and rejected.
  4. Social Influence:  Peer groups and social media may play a role in how people explore their identities.  This doesn't mean that everyone who explores their identity will become Transgender.  But it does mean that they'll be more comfortable in their own identity and, therefore, with the identities of those around them.  I think this is a good time to point out that the reason phobias like homophobia and transphobia exist is because 1.) insecurity of ones own sexuality and/or gender identity, and 2.) human bias.  Exploration can at least ease some of the fear and possibly even some of the hate.
  5. Biology:  Ongoing research suggests that genetic and hormonal factors may influence gender identity.  Of course, this does not negate other possible influences.  At present, research into this phenomenon is still new and researchers are realizing more and more possibilities to look into.
    This subject is constantly evolving, and each individual's experience is unique.  What's yours?

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