Life Course Challenges of Transpeople—Beyond Transition

• In Event: 336 - Section on Body and Embodiment Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 04. Bodies and Gender

Abstract

While a great deal of literature exists regarding early medical transition and identity, being trans* is not something that simply disappears once social and physical transition itself has been completed. Far less information is available about ways in which a trans* identity continues to impact an individual’s life in a wide variety of domains. As the U.S. hits a critical mass of aging, openly LGB and T people, it is becoming increasingly important to examine issues of later life healthcare and, generally heteronormative, elder care facilities and institutions. This study then is designed to combine a life course perspective with studies of sex/gender and trans* studies, using concepts from sociology’s identity theory, to ask in what areas of life does an individual’s identity as trans* continue to have effects after the initial intensity of physical and social transition itself has subsided? Why? How do individuals manage any challenges that arise? This project assumes that giving voice to trans* self-understandings and perspectives beyond transition is crucial to broadening awareness of and support for transpeople throughout our lives, from within our community and from our allies and the surrounding culture. This presentation covers emerging themes of this research project.

Author

• Andrew Seeber, University of California-Santa Barbara