Debunking Trans Myths

     As a trans advocate, it's vital to shed light on the truth and counteract the many misconceptions that persist about trans individuals. Education and empathy can pave the way for a freer, more equal society. Let’s dive into some common myths and debunk them with facts:

Myth #1: Being Trans Is Just a Phase

Reality: Being transgender is not a phase or a trend. It’s a deeply rooted aspect of an individual's identity. For many, their gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. This realization can come at any age, and once understood, it’s not something that "goes away." Studies have shown that gender identity is an inherent part of who someone is, rather than a temporary phase.  (If it was just a phase, every trans individual would be screwed when it went away.  How badly would depend on how far into the journey we had gone.  Had you gotten the bottom surgery yet?  Have you gotten the top surgery?  Personally, I've been growing my breasts naturally and I can't afford surgery to have them removed, so they're here for the rest of my life.)

Myth #2: Trans People Are Mentally Ill

Reality: Being transgender is not a mental illness. While trans individuals may experience higher rates of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, these are often the result of societal stigma, discrimination, and lack of support. The World Health Organization (WHO) has removed "gender incongruence" from the mental disorders section of their International Classification of Diseases (ICD), acknowledging that being trans is not a pathology.  I might also add that the American Psychological Association (APA) does not include it in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Edition 5 (DSM-5) as a mental illness.  (I think this myth pisses me off the most!  Highly educated and highly intelligent talking heads on the political Right repeat this often.  You would think that with their degree of intelligence they would have taken the time to research the matter.  Instead, they speak from an ideological discrimination and lead millions to hate.)

Myth #3: Trans Women Aren't “Real” Women and Trans Men Aren't “Real” Men

Reality: Trans women are women and trans men are men. Gender identity is about who we know ourselves to be, not just physical characteristics. Many trans people undergo various forms of gender affirmation, whether socially, hormonally, or surgically, to align their bodies with their identities. Respecting someone’s gender identity is fundamental to affirming their humanity.  (There is a truth that society needs to reclaim, and one that I'll repeat over and over until the day I die:  Gender and sex are not the same thing.  Sex is biological - male/female.  Gender is more a matter of metaphysics.)

Myth #4: Children Are Too Young to Know They're Trans

Reality: Children can have a strong sense of their gender identity at a very young age, sometimes as early as three years old. It’s important to listen and support them in their journey. Research shows that children who are supported in their gender identity have better mental health outcomes compared to those who are not.  (This is a very slippery slope, in my mind.  To begin with, I'm sure that children can, in fact, know that they're trans.  On the other hand, they can also be misled into believing that they are by adults who should just STFU and stay out of the child's mind.  The knowledge started coming to me in my preteen years, but I pushed it away due to ideological teachings in my childhood.  As a result, I was a very angry and hateful individual.  I didn't realize that I was angry at, and hated, myself.  If I would've been able to come forward with it to my parents and been supported, even without medical intervention, it would have been a much different story for me.)

Myth #5: Trans People Transition to Attract a Certain Gender

Reality: Transitioning is a deeply personal journey that is about aligning one’s physical self with their gender identity, not about attracting any particular gender. The motivations for transitioning are rooted in personal well-being and authenticity, far from the stereotypes perpetuated by these myths.  (I think that gender was again confused for sex in this myth.  At this point of my life, I'm not interested in attracting anyone new.  I'm quite happy with my wife who accepts me for me, whether I transition, or not.  Also, I had no trouble attracting biological males in my younger years.)

Myth #6: Non-Binary and Gender Non-Conforming Identities Are Just New Trends

Reality: Non-binary and gender non-conforming identities have existed across cultures and history. They are not new nor are they trends. Many cultures traditionally recognize more than two genders, and acknowledging this diversity is essential for a truer understanding of gender.

The Path Forward

    By addressing these myths, we can foster a better understanding and acceptance of trans people. Education is a powerful tool to combat ignorance and promote empathy. Let’s continue to spread accurate information, support trans individuals in their journeys, and work towards a world that celebrates everyone’s authentic self.

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