Understanding transvestism and cross-dressing

[Storyteller.]

Understanding transvestism and cross-dressing
By Jenny (coolkid98)

A transvestite is someone who enjoys dressing up in clothes of the opposite sex. This is different than being transgender because those who cross-dress are comfortable with their assigned sex. There is a common misconception by both individuals and professionals that transvestites cross-dress only for sexual pleasure, but this is not necessarily true. If it is done for sexual gratification, it is called transvestic fetishism; this is different from transvestism. Transvestites often behave as a member of the opposite sex as well as dressing up accordingly, for example picking up the opposite sex's mannerisms and changing their voice. This can be done through surgery, but typically this is only a behavioral change. In recent times, people who dress in the clothes of the opposite sex have preferred to identify themselves as cross-dressers rather than transvestites. Although there are some women who dress as men, it is more often men who dress in the clothes of women.

Drag queens

A drag queen or king is someone who dresses as a member of the opposite sex for the purpose of entertainment. Examples of entertainment styles include theatre, comedy or television. A drag king is usually a female, whilst a drag queen is a male. "Drag," the shortened word for the subculture of drag queens and kings, tends to accentuate stereotypical features of the opposite sex. For example, a drag queen might deliberately overuse false eyelashes and lipstick. Drag is often worn for special occasions such as partying or clubbing. There are different types of drag including "skag drag," which is where males dress up as females whilst still taking on a masculine role and characteristics (such as keeping their beards). Skag drag can also mean dressing up without trying to hide their assigned sex. People who dress up in drag tend to perform in pageants to be crowned as princesses, princes, emperors, or other forms of royalty. Drag can be seen in lots of films including Big Momma House, St. Trinian's, Flawless, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Hairspray. Varying forms of drag queens are found across nearly all cultures, and many people from diverse backgrounds dress in drag.

The psychology behind cross-dressing

Cross-dressing isn't abnormal and therefore does not need to be "cured;" however, like many behaviors, it is interesting to look at the influences connected with cross-dressing. Researchers in the field of psychology have identified particular factors which often seem to be present in the upbringing of transvestites. Although no solid causes have been identified, these can be looked upon as possible reasons:

• Encouragement by family members of a person’s occasional cross-dressing.
• Secret longing of parents, especially the mother, to have a child of the opposite sex.
• Frequent exposure to the opposite sex in the house who change clothes in front of the growing child.
• Many of those who dress in drag describe it as a way of relieving stress and say that they tend to feel a compulsion to dress up more in times of stress in their lives.

Talking about transvestism

Coming out as a transvestite can be a scary and unpredictable experience. Many fear how the person they are confiding in will react; however, coming out can be beneficial for many as it mean they no longer have to dress-up in secret, despite the fact that some people may find it hard to accept them. If you're thinking about coming out to somebody as a transvestite, it's a good idea to think about where, when, and how you're going to tell them beforehand. One way to plan is to consider the relationship with the person in the way that one comes out. There are a variety of ways to come out, including doing so face-to-face, phone call, email, letter, or a text message (SMS). Reactions of the individual vary because everyone is different. Possible reactions include rejection, anger, sadness, acceptance, conditional support, disappointment, sympathy, happiness, and/or disbelief. It may take a while for the person to come to terms with what the person has told them and be accepted. It is also a good idea to research support services in the local area.

Being told that a person is a transvestite

Being told someone a person is a transvestite can be a scary experience as it can be hard to know how to react around or with the person. If somebody has come out as a transvestite, it's important to respect their gender identity by referring to them with their preferred name and gender pronoun, unless asked otherwise. Don't force the person to reveal more details, as this will only make the person feel uneasy. Treat the person the same and don't tell others that the person is a transvestite unless they have given permission. Express support for the person and show them how brave they were for revealing that they are a transvestite. When someone reveals they are a transvestite a person can feel many different feelings, for example, accepting, curious about their choice, uncomfortable, afraid, happy, and disappointed. Some transvestites are willing to answer questions whilst other won't; if the person doesn't want to answer a certain question, don't force them to give an answer.

Transvestites are one of the most prejudged and misunderstood groups of people in the world because they are often mistaken for transgender individuals, who are also too often prematurely judged. Many people also don’t know much about them, making some not accepting of transvestites. Their individual reasons to cross-dress vary. Some might cross-dress for psychological reasons, whilst drag queens, or drag kings are doing so for entertainment purposes. As with every group and individual, transvestites shouldn't be judged because of their differences, but should be celebrated and appreciated for who they are.