Showing papers on "Transgender published in 2007"

Whipping Girl: A Transsexual Woman on Sexism and the Scapegoating of Femininity

Abstract: A provocative manifesto, Whipping Girl tells the powerful story of Julia Serano, a transsexual woman whose supremely intelligent writing reflects her diverse background as a lesbian transgender activist and professional biologist. Serano shares her experiences and observations both pre- and post-transition to reveal the ways in which fear, suspicion, and dismissiveness toward femininity shape our societal attitudes toward trans women, as well as gender and sexuality as a whole. Serano's well-honed arguments stem from her ability to bridge the gap between the often-disparate biological and social perspectives on gender. She exposes how deep-rooted the cultural belief is that femininity is frivolous, weak, and passive, and how this "feminine" weakness exists only to attract and appease male desire. In addition to debunking popular misconceptions about transsexuality, Serano makes the case that today's feminists and transgender activist must work to embrace and empower femininity in all of its wondrous forms. "

Transgender Youth and Life‐Threatening Behaviors

Abstract: Sexual minority status is a key risk factor for suicide among lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth; however, it has not been studied among transgender youth. Fifty-five transgender youth reported on their life-threatening behaviors. Nearly half of the sample reported having seriously thought about taking their lives and one quarter reported suicide attempts. Factors significantly related to having made a suicide attempt included suicidal ideation related to transgender identity; experiences of past parental verbal and physical abuse; and lower body esteem, especially weight satisfaction and thoughts of how others evaluate the youths' bodies. Sexual minority status is a key risk factor for life-threatening behaviors among transgender youth.

Imagining Transgender: An Ethnography of a Category

Abstract: Imagining Transgender is an ethnography of the emergence and institutionalization of transgender as a category of collective identity and political activism. Embraced by activists in the early 1990s to advocate for gender-variant people, the category quickly gained momentum in public health, social service, scholarly, and legislative contexts. Working as a safer-sex activist in Manhattan during the late 1990s, David Valentine conducted ethnographic research among mostly male-to-female transgender-identified people at drag balls, support groups, cross-dresser organizations, clinics, bars, and clubs. However, he found that many of those labeled “transgender” by activists did not know the term or resisted its use. Instead, they self-identified as “gay,” a category of sexual rather than gendered identity and one rejected in turn by the activists who claimed these subjects as transgender. Valentine analyzes the reasons for and potential consequences of this difference, and how social theory is implicated in it. Valentine argues that “transgender” has been adopted so rapidly in the contemporary United States because it clarifies a model of gender and sexuality that has been gaining traction within feminism, psychiatry, and mainstream gay and lesbian politics since the 1970s: a paradigm in which gender and sexuality are distinct arenas of human experience. This distinction and the identity categories based on it erase the experiences of some gender-variant people—particularly poor persons of color—who conceive of gender and sexuality in other terms. While recognizing the important advances transgender has facilitated, Valentine argues that a broad vision of social justice must include, simultaneously, an attentiveness to the politics of language and a recognition of how social theoretical models and broader political economies are embedded in the day-to-day politics of identity.

The health of sexual minorities: Public health perspectives on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations

Abstract: Who Are LGBT Individuals?.- Shifting Sands or Solid Foundation? Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Identity Formation.- Development of Same-Sex Attracted Youth.- Developmental Issues in Lesbian and Gay Adulthood.- Biology and Sexual Minority Status.- LGBT Health and the State.- The Importance of Being Perverse: Troubling Law, Identities, Health and Rights in Search of Global Justice.- Ethical, Legal, Social, and Political Implications of Scientific Research on Sexual Orientation.- Targeting the State: Risks, Benefits, and Strategic Dilemmas of Recent LGBT Health Advocacy.- Prejudice and Pride in Health.- Sexual Stigma: Putting Sexual Minority Health Issues in Context.- Globalization, Structural Violence, and LGBT Health: A Cross-Cultural Perspective.- Prejudice and Discrimination as Social Stressors.- Determinants of Health Among Two-Spirit American Indians and Alaska Natives.- "I Don't Fit Anywhere": How Race and Sexuality Shape Latino Gay and Bisexual Men's Health.- Black LGB Health and Well-Being.- Research Methodologies.- Defining and Measuring Sexual Orientation for Research.- Sampling in Surveys of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual People.- Researching Gay Men's Health: The Promise of Qualitative Methodology.- From Science Fiction to Computer-Generated Technology: Sampling Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals.- Using Community-Based Participatory Research to Understand and Eliminate Social Disparities in Health for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Populations.- Health Concerns.- Transgender Health Concerns.- Health Care of Lesbians and Bisexual Women.- Cancer and Sexual Minority Women.- HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men: Current Progress and Future Directions.- LGBT Tobacco and Alcohol Disparities.- Methamphetamine Use and Its Relation to HIV Risk: Data from Latino Gay Men in San Francisco.- Healthcare Systems and Services.- Improving Access to Health Care Among African-American, Asian and Pacific Islander, and Latino Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Populations.- Public Health and Trans-People: Barriers to Care and Strategies to Improve Treatment.- HIV Prevention and Care for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youths: "Best Practices" from Existing Programs and Policies.- Fenway Community Health's Model of Integrated, Community-Based LGBT Care, Education, and Research.

Handbook for Achieving Gender Equity Through Education

Abstract: Contents: Preface. S.S. Klein with C. Kramarae and B. Richardson, Examining the Achievement of Gender Equity in and Through Education. B. Richardson, Part I: Facts and Assumptions About the Nature and Value of Gender Equity. J. Hyde, S.M. Lindberg, Facts and Assumptions About the Nature of Gender Differences and the Implications for Gender Equity. N. Stromquist, Gender Equity Education Globally. B. Richardson, P. Sandoval, Impact of Education on Gender Equity in Employment and Its Outcomes. D. Grayson, Part II: Administrative Strategies for Implementing Gender Equity. M. Nash, S.S. Klein, B. Bitters, S. Hobbs, W. Howe, L. Shevitz, L. Wharton, The Role of Government in Advancing Gender Equity in Education.C. Shakeshaft, G. Brown, B.J. Irby, M. Grogan, J. Ballenger, Increasing Gender Equity in Educational Leadership. D. Sadker, K. Zittleman, P. Earley, T. McCormick, C. Strawn, J-A. Preston, The Treatment of Gender Equity in Teacher Education. L. Fox, Part III: General Educational Practices for Promoting Gender Equity. D. Reed, L. Fox, M.L. Andrews, N. Betz, J.P. Evenstad, A. Harris, C. Hightower-Parker, J. Johnson, S. Johnson, B. Polnick, P. Rosser, Gender Equity in Testing and Assessment. E. Arms, Gender Equity in Coeducational and Single Sex Educational Environments. G. Abbott, L. Bievenue, S. Damarin, C. Kramarae with G. Jepkemboi and C. Strawn, Gender Equity in the Use of Educational Technology. M.A. Paludi with L. Nydegger, J. Martin, C.A. Paludi, Jr., Sexual Harassment: The Hidden Gender Equity Problem. C. Kramarae, Part IV: Gender Equity Strategies in the Content Areas. C. Lacampagne, P. Campbell, S. Damarin, A. Herzig, C. Vogt, Gender Equity in Mathematics. C. Burger, G. Abbott, S. Tobias, J. Koch, C. Vogt, with L. Bievenue, D. Carlito, T. Sosa, and C. Strawn, Gender Equity in Science, Engineering, and Technology. A. Taylor, A. Bailey, P. Cooper, C.A. Dwyer, C. Kramarae, B. Lieb, Gender Equity in Communication Skills. C. Brantmeier, J. Wilde, J. Schueller, C. Kinginger, Gender Equity in Foreign and Second Language Learning. C.L. Hahn, J. Bernard-Powers, M. Crocco, C. Woyshner, Gender Equity in Social Studies. E. Garber, R. Sandell, M.A. Stankiewicz, D. Risner, with G. Collins, K. Congdon, M. Floyd, M. Jaksch, P. Speirs, S. Springgay, E. Zimmerman, and R. Irwin, Gender Equity in Visual Arts and Dance Education. E. Staurowsky, N. Hogshead-Makar, M.J. Kane, E. Wughalter, A. Yiamouyiannis, P. Lerner, Gender Equity in Physical Education and Athletics. J. DeLamater, Gender Equity in Formal Sexuality Education. M.E. Lufkin, M. Wiberg, C.R. Jenkins, T. Boyer, E. Eardley, J. Huss, Gender Equity in Career and Technical Education. B. Eudey, with E. Correa, S. Lukas, The Role of Women's and Gender Studies in Advancing Gender Equity. D. Pollard, Part V: Gender Equity Strategies for Diverse Populations. O.M. Welch, F.E. Patterson, K.A. Scott, D. Pollard, Gender Equity for African Americans. A. Ginorio, M. Vasquez, Y. Lapayese, Gender Equity for Latina/os. M. Spencer, Y. Inoue, G.P. McField, Gender Equity for Asian and Pacific Island Americans. A. Calhoun, M. Goeman, M. Tsethlikai, Gender Equity for American Indians. J. Kosciw, E. Byard, S.N. Fischer, C. Joslin, Gender Equity and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues in Education. L. Fox, J. Soller, Gender Equity for Gifted Students. D. Mertens, A. Wilson, J. Mounty, Gender Equity for People With Disabilities. C.A. Dwyer, Part VI: Gender Equity From Early Through Postsecondary Education. B. Polnick, C. Dwyer, D. Fromberg, M. Froschl, C.F. Haynie, B. Sprung, Gender Equity in Early Learning Environments. J. Cooper, P. Eddy, J. Hart, J. Lester, S. Lukas, B. Eudey, J. Glazer-Raymo, M. Madden, Improving Gender Equity in Postsecondary Education. S.S. Klein, Summary and Recommendations for Achieving Gender Equity in and Through Education.

Perceived Risks and Benefits of Sex Work among Transgender Women of Color in San Francisco

Abstract: Prior research has shown that male-to-female (MTF) transgender women of color in the United States have a high rate of HIV infection and often engage in sex work for economic survival. With the exception of studies on HIV prevalence and behavioral risk, little research exists to elucidate the social context and determinants of sex work and related health risks among these women. Through a qualitative analysis of seven focus groups with 48 transgender women of color, we examined why and how participants became involved in sex work, documented risks associated with sex work, and explored what motivated participants to remain in sex work. Participants reported on how social networks and cultural norms, immigration issues, and experiences of racism, sexism, and transphobia influenced their decisions to enter and the risks encountered in sex work. Findings revealed that transgender women of color who engage in sex work have unique needs and experiences that must be addressed through structural and social network-based interventions to minimize their vulnerability to social and public health harms.

Handbook of counseling and psychotherapy with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients, 2nd ed.

Abstract: The "Handbook of Counseling and Psychotherapy With Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Clients, Second Edition" significantly builds upon the areas of knowledge mapped in the award-winning first edition and explores the practical ramifications of recent changes regarding therapy with this population. In this thoroughly updated edition, the editors focus critical attention on the need to enhance our understanding of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients. They incorporate new and emerging areas of scholarship and reflect on implications of recent changes in our society, including political struggles for gay civil unions, marriage, and adoption rights. This volume focuses on the complex cultural contexts of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals and explores how to provide them with effective psychotherapy across a range of presenting concerns. The authors stress the importance of affirmation with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients throughout. This second edition of the Handbook will be an essential resource for all therapists, counselors, and researchers.

A Study of Transgender Adults and Their Non-Transgender Siblings on Demographic Characteristics, Social Support, and Experiences of Violence

Abstract: A national sample of 295 transgender adults and their nontransgender siblings were surveyed about demographics, perceptions of social support, and violence, harassment, and discrimination. Transwomen were older than the other 4 groups. Transwomen, transmen, and genderqueers were more highly educated than nontransgender sisters and nontransgender brothers, but did not have a corresponding higher income. Other demographic differences between groups were found in religion, geographic mobility, relationship status, and sexual orientation. Transgender people were more likely to experience harassment and discrimination than nontransgender sisters and nontransgender brothers. All transgender people perceived less social support from family than nontransgender sisters. This is the first study to compare trans people to nontrans siblings as a comparison group.

Gender Nonconformity as a Target of Prejudice, Discrimination, and Violence Against LGB Individuals

Abstract: Research into antigay violence has been limited by a lack of attention to issues of gender presentation. Understanding gender nonconformity is important for addressing antigay prejudice and hate crimes. We assessed experiences of gender-nonconformity-related prejudice among 396 Black, Latino, and White lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals recruited from diverse community venues in New York City. We assessed the prevalence and contexts of prejudice-related life events and everyday discrimination using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Gender nonconformity had precipitated major prejudice events for 9% of the respondents and discrimination instances for 19%. Women were more likely than men to report gender-nonconformity-related discrimination but there were no differences by other demographic characteristics. In analysis of events narratives, we show that gender nonconformity prejudice is often intertwined with antigay prejudice. Our results demonstrate that both constructs should be included when addressing prejudice and hate crimes targeting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals and communities.

LGBT Student Leaders and Queer Activists: Identities of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Identified College Student Leaders and Activists

Abstract: This qualitative study provided evidence of common patterns of involvement, leadership, and identity among 15 students leading lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) campus groups. Participants were 7 men, 5 women, and 3 female-to-male transgender students; one first-year, 4 sophomores, 4 juniors, and 6 seniors; and 8 White, 2 Black, one biracial, one international, 2 Latina/o, and one White Jewish students. Within the overall pattern of involvement, an involvement-identity cycle occurred in which increased leadership led to increased public LGBT identity and a merged gender/sexual orientation and leadership identity. Evidence also supported the classification of students into three distinct identities: LGBT Leader, LGBT Activist, and Queer Activist. I present implications for scholars and educators working with LGBT and other students leading in identity-based contexts.

Effects of perceived discrimination on mental health and mental health services utilization among gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons.

Abstract: Objectives. Previous research has found that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals are at risk for a variety of mental health disorders. We examined the extent to which a recent experience of a major discriminatory event may contribute to poor mental health among LGBT persons. Methods. Data were derived from a cross-sectional strata-cluster survey of adults in Hennepin County, Minnesota, who identified as LGBT (n = 472) or heterosexual (n = 7,412). Results. Compared to heterosexuals, LGBT individuals had poorer mental health (higher levels of psychological distress, greater likelihood of having a diagnosis of depression or anxiety, greater perceived mental health needs, and greater use of mental health services), more substance use (higher levels of binge drinking, greater likelihood of being a smoker and greater number of cigarettes smoked per day), and were more likely to report unmet mental healthcare needs. LGBT individuals were also more likely to report having experience...

Bending Gender, Ending Gender: Theoretical Foundations for Social Work Practice with the Transgender Community

Abstract: Gender is a ubiquitous social construct that wields power over every individual in our society. The traditional dichotomous gender paradigm is oppressive, especially for transgendered people whose sense of themselves as gendered people is incongruent with the gender they were assigned at birth. Transgendered individuals are targeted for mistreatment when others attempt to enforce conventional gender boundaries. This article discusses gender-based oppression and the resulting psychosocial difficulties experienced by many transgendered individuals. The discussion advances a critical analysis of the dominant gender paradigm using two alternative theoretical perspectives on gender--queer theory and social constructionism. The article argues that the transgender community is an at-risk population and that empowering practice with this population calls on social workers to target society's traditional gender dichotomy for change. An overview of practice implications and research needs is provided.

Sexuality, health, and human rights.

Abstract: This new work surveys how rapid changes taking place at the start of the twenty-first century in social, cultural, political and economic domains impact on sexuality, health and human rights. The relationships between men, women and children are changing quickly, as are traditional family structures and gender norms. What were once viewed as private matters have become public, and an array of new social movements – transgender, intersex, sex worker, people living with HIV – have come into the open. The book is split into three sections: Global ‘Sex’ Wars – discusses the notion of sexualities, its political landscapes internationally, and the return of religious fervour and extremism Epistemological Challenges and Research Agendas – examines modern ‘scientific’ understandings of sexuality, its history and the way in which AIDS has drawn attention to sexuality The Promises and Limits of Sexual Rights – discusses human rights approaches to sexuality, their strengths and limitations and new ways of imagining erotic justice Offering a unique framework for understanding this new world, set in the context of the major theoretical debates of recent decades, this book will be of interest to professionals, advocates and policy researchers and is suitable for a wide range of courses covering areas such as gender studies, human sexuality, public health and social policy.

TransForming gender: Transgender practices of identity, intimacy and care

Abstract: Introduction Theorising transgender Analysing care, intimacy and citizenship Transgender identities and experiences Gender identities and feminism Sexual identities Partnering and parenting relationships Kinship and friendship Care networks, social movements and citizenship Towards a queer sociology of transgender.

Queers in the American City: Transgendered perceptions of urban space

Abstract: This paper explores the complex relationship between transgendered people and cities in the USA, and, in particular, their relationship with queer spaces within those cities. Some have argued that queer spaces occur at the margins of society and constitute a safe haven for LGBT oppressed by the hetero-normative nature of urban areas. Data from a survey of 149 transgendered individuals indicate that although queer spaces provide a measure of protection for gender variant people, the gendered nature of these spaces results in continued high levels of harassment and violence for this population. The author argues that the strongly gendered dimensions of these spaces suggests that a discursive re-visioning of gender is needed to create more transgender friendly urban spaces.

'It's really a hard life': love, gender and HIV risk among male-to-female transgender persons.

Abstract: Scientific studies demonstrate high rates of HIV infection among male-to-female (MTF) transgender individuals and that stigma and discrimination place MTFs at increased risk for infection. However, there is little research examining how gender roles contribute to HIV risk. This paper reports on in-depth interviews with 20 MTFs attending a community clinic. Data reveal that stigma and discrimination create a heightened need for MTFs to feel safe and loved by a male companion and that in turn places them at a higher risk for acquiring HIV. Male-to-female transgender individuals appear to turn to men to feel loved and affirmed as women; their main HIV risk stems from their willingness to engage with sexual partners who provide a sense of love and acceptance but who also may also request unsafe sexual behaviours. A model illustrating how HIV risk is generated from stigma and discrimination is presented.

Shifting Sands or Solid Foundation? Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Identity Formation

Abstract: How do some individuals come to identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender? Is there a static, universal process of identity formation that crosses all lines of individual difference, such as sexual identities, sex/gender, class, race/ethnicity, and age? If so, can we describe that process in a series of linear stages or steps? Is identity based on a rock-solid foundation, stable and consistent over time? Or are there many identity formation processes that are specific to social and historical factors and/or individual differences, an ever-shifting landscape like a sand dune? The field of lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender (LGBT) studies is characterized by competing paradigms expressed in various ways: nature versus nurture, biology versus environment, and essentialism versus social constructionism (Eliason, 1996b). Although subtly different, all three debates share common features. Nature, biology, and essentialistic paradigms propose that sexual and gender identities are “real,” based in biology or very early life experiences and fixed and stable throughout the life span. These paradigms allow for the development of linear stages of development, or “coming out,” models.

Seeking refuge under the umbrella: Inclusion, exclusion, and organizing within the category Transgender

Abstract: The category transgender has no singular, fixed meaning. Rather, it is inclusive of identities and experiences of sex and gender variance, changing, and blending. Although no consensus exists about exactly whom this category includes, nearly all definitions share the use of a metaphorical umbrella, which activists agree is a useful tool for political organizing outside current understandings of binary sex and gender divisions. This article details activists’ definitions of transgender and the identities covered by this umbrella to inform an analysis of how different understandings of transgenderframe activists’ efforts for social change. From transsexual separatists, intersex activists, and genderqueer youth to trans-gender activists, gender rights advocates, and others organizing within the category transgender, the author ethnographically evidences the political implications of inclusion and exclusion in terms of assimilation, social privilege, activist strategies, rights claims and policy changes, and the visions of social change forwarded by trans activists.

Capturing the social demographics of hidden sexual minorities: An internet study of the transgender population in the United States

Abstract: As part of a larger study, we investigated the feasibility of using Internet research to capture the demographic characteristics of a largely closeted sexual minority and to report such characteristics in the first national study of transgender persons ever attempted in the United States. To achieve a nonclinical national sample, online convenience sampling was used. Of 1,373 surveys received, 1,229 (90%) were deemed complete and from unique individuals self-identifying as transgender, 18 years or older, and U.S. residents. Participation approximated that predicted by the U.S. Census (2000). Comparison with census data identified the sample as younger, White (non-Hispanic), single, more educated but with less household income, living in smaller towns to medium-sized cities, and less affiliated with traditional Christian denominations. Demographic characteristics differed significantly by both gender and transgender status. The challenge of achieving demographically representative sampling online, as well as implications for future research and policy, are discussed.

Evaluating the Phobias, Attitudes, and Cultural Competence of Master of Social Work Students Toward the LGBT Populations

Abstract: Background. Evidence suggests there is bias toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons by social workers; unfortunately, little research has been conducted to examine Master of Social Work (MSW) students' views toward these populations. The purpose of this study was to develop an assessment scale to evaluate the attitudes, phobias, and cultural competence of MSW students toward the LGBT populations. Methods. An assessment scale was developed and administered to MSW students (n = 173) at a Midwestern American university. Results. The majority of MSW students reported low phobia and a positive attitude toward the LGBT populations, yet participants reported having a low level of cultural competence in serving LGBT clients. Conclusion. More education and training is needed for MSW students to effectively serve the LGBT populations.

Traversing the Margins: Intersectionalities in the Bullying of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth

Abstract: SUMMARY This study explores the perspectives of service providers and youth advocates on bullying of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth and intersectionalities in LGBT peer victimization. In depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine key informants (4 male, 4 female, 1 transgender male; 4 gay, 3 lesbian, 2 non-identified; 6 white, 1 South Asian, 2 Middle Eastern) recruited using purposive sampling from diverse education and social service settings. Narrative thematic analysis and a constant comparative method were used to identify themes. Five themes emerged from the data: (1) “transgressing gender norm boundaries”; (2) homophobic sexism vs. sexist homophobia; (3) “you choose sexuality or you choose race”; (4) newcomer youth and citizenship; and (5) “multiple wires together … create the cage.” Findings suggest the importance of an intersectional approach to conceptualizing and addressing LGBT bullying and to uncovering the differential experiences of bullying among LGBT yo...

History of childhood sexual abuse and HIV risk behaviors in homosexual and bisexual men.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: We examined the prevalence and frequency of childhood sexual abuse and their association with sexual risk among a sample of gay and bisexual men. Methods. Cross-sectional data were collected by survey from randomly selected gay and bisexual men who attended the 1997 and 1998 Minneapolis/St. Paul Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Festivals. Data included demographics, sexual activity, history of childhood sexual abuse, HIV status, history of sexually transmitted infection, use of sex-related drugs (such as crack, cocaine, Ecstasy, amyl nitrate, crystal methamphetamine, and Special K), and history of exchanging sex for payment. Results. childhood sexual abuse was reported by 15.5% of the survey respondents (n = 134). Those who reported experiencing abuse regularly were more likely to (1) be HIV positive, (2) have exchanged sex for payment, and (3) be a current user of sex-related drugs. Neither unsafe sex nor sexually transmitted infections were associated with childhood sexual abuse. CONCLUSIONS: These findings show that more than 1 in 7 gay and bisexual men in a non-clinical, festival-based setting were victims of childhood sexual abuse and that childhood sexual abuse was associated with alarmingly high rates of men who were HIV infected and antecedent risk behaviors. Language: en

Sex Workers, Fem Queens, and Cross-Dressers: Differential Marginalizations and HIV Vulnerabilities Among Three Ethnocultural Male-to-Female Transgender Communities in New York City

Abstract: This article describes 3 distinct ethnocultural male-to-female transgender communities in New York City: the low-income African American/Black1 and Latina(o) House Ball community; low-income, often undocumented immigrant Asian sex workers; and middle-class White cross-dressers. These communities are highly socially isolated from each other and are more connected to their ethnocultural contexts than to an abstract and shared transgender identity. Whereas previous research either has viewed male-to-female transgender people as one monolithic group or has separated them into abstract racial categories unconnected to their communities and lifestyles, this article positions them within specific social networks, cultures, neighborhoods, and lifestyles. With regard to HIV vulnerabilities, violence, and rape, House Ball community members seemed to engage in the riskiest form of survival sex work, whereas Asian sex workers seemed to engage in moderate-risk survival sex work. White cross-dressers seemed to engage in very low-risk recreational sex work.2

Making sense of sexual orientation measures: findings from a cognitive processing study with adolescents on health survey questions

Abstract: Objective: To carry out a study using cognitive processing interview methods to explore ways in which adolescents understand sexual orientation questions currently used on epidemiologic surveys. Methods: In-depth, individual interviews were conducted to probe cognitive processes involved in answering four self-report survey questions assessing sexual identity, sexual attraction, and sex of sexual partners. A semi-structured interview guide was used to explore variation in question interpretation, information retrieval patterns and problems, item clarity, valence of reactions to items (positive, negative, neutral), respondent burden, and perceived threat associated with the measures. Thirty adolescents aged 15 to 21 of diverse sexual orientations and race/ethnicities participated in the study, including female, male, and transgender youth. Results: A question on sexual attraction was the most consistently understood and thus was easy for nearly all youth to answer. In contrast, a measure of sexual...

TranZnation - a report on the health and wellbeing of transgendered people in Australia and New Zealand

Abstract: Studies investigating health and wellbeing of transgender people have typically been conducted in medical environments such as gender clinics and through sexual health centres. One of the primary concerns of transgender people is recognition of their gender status which is often difficult to achieve in ordinary medical practices. This research has its beginnings in an act of transgender activism, arising out of dissatisfaction with the capacity of the 2005 Private Lives project to capture the complexity of transgender lives. A central pivot in the concerns of the transgender communities about health services is that of recognition. Practices of medicine are implicated in many of the attempts by transgender people to achieve positive health and self- and social recognition for their preferred gender. Additionally, recognition on formal documentary records is, in many cases, dependent upon certified medical intervention.

“To Protect and to Serve?”: An Exploration of Police Conduct in Relation to the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Community

Abstract: While there are studies that focus specifically on hate crimes, especially anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender motivated violence, little research has been done to examine the role that law enforcement officials play in responding to crimes related to the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender (GLBT) community. This study, therefore, attempts to do just that. Using traditional content-analysis techniques, we examine 1,896 incident reports that were collected by a GLBT advocacy group in Minnesota, between 1990 and 2000, to begin to understand the range of police responses in relation to the GLBT community. Results indicate that while police conduct improved, negative responses and behaviors on the part of law enforcement officials outnumbered positive responses. The most common complaint by Helpline callers was inadequate response by the police; there were also numerous callers indicating that they were further victimized at the hands of the law enforcement officials. The data suggest a continued need for the education of law enforcement officials regarding issues facing the GLBT community, advocacy for victims of crime who are many times reluctant to report an incident to the police and increased attention to issues of oversight and accountability for officers who are responding to calls for help from the GLBT community.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youths: Who Smokes, and Why?

Abstract: Existing research indicates the rate of smoking among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youths exceeds the general population's, possibly due to stress, habitual substance abuse, socializing in smoky venues, and tobacco marketing. The study's overall aim was to conduct qualitative research regarding tobacco use and avoidance by LGBT youths. This report focuses on identifying priority subpopulations and corresponding risk and resiliency factors. Purposive and maximum variation sampling were used to select 30 LGBT youths and 30 interactors for face-to-face interviews. Almost a third of participants said that all LGBT youths are at risk for smoking. Other respondents specified a range of high-risk groups, encompassing many subpopulations. Contributing factors for smoking included personal characteristics, interpersonal issues, environmental conditions, and structural issues. More than a third of young smokers were not acquainted with LGBT nonsmokers and could not imagine how they avoid using tobacco. Half of the interactors and four youths ascribed favorable qualities to nonsmokers--such as self-esteem, will power, and concern for personal health, appearance, and well-being. In conclusion, smoking is a pervasive problem among LGBT youths. The findings corroborate prior explanations and implicate new ones. Some risks (e.g., limited opportunities to socialize with LGBT peers outside of smoking venues, the desire to appear more masculine, and sexuality-related stress) and resiliency factors (e.g., positive sexual identity) are unique to LGBT populations, reinforcing the need for culturally specific approaches to prevention and cessation. Highlighting the positive attributes of nonsmokers and nonsmoking might prove useful in prevention campaigns.