A trans man is a person who has a deep understanding of their masculine identity and goes through a transition process to align their external body with that identification. They may take hormone replacement therapy or undergo sex reassignment surgery. They often use he/him or his/his pronouns and wear clothing seen as male.
Gender identity
Gender identity refers to how a person feels inside – whether they feel like a man or a woman, or something else. Some people also use terms such as gender fluid and agender to describe their gender.
Sexual orientation, on the other hand, is about who a person is attracted to. This can be straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual or asexual.
Most Americans (71%) say that a person’s gender should be determined by the sex they were assigned at birth. However, those who believe that a person’s gender can be different from the sex assigned at birth are more likely to say their knowledge of science, what they have heard or read on social media and knowing someone who is transgender influence their views a great deal or a fair amount. Views vary by partisanship. Democrats are more likely to say they see a lot or some discrimination against transgender people. Republicans are more likely to say that little or no discrimination exists.
Sexuality
This is a difficult topic for anyone, and it can be especially fraught for trans people. Many feel fearful about sex and sexual intimacy, as some have experienced mistreatment in the past due to their gender identity. Sex can be a safe way to explore your feelings and find a partner, but it’s important to set boundaries in the beginning.
Despite these challenges, many trans men experience fluid sexuality during transition. In fact, studies have shown that 43% of transgender people report shifts in their sexual orientation during transition. They can move from being gynephilic, which means they were attracted to women, to being androphilic, which means they were attracted to men, or they can become bisexual.
This can be confusing for cisgender partners, as some may interpret this as sexual preference. However, this is a normal part of the transition process, and it should be celebrated. This is also a great time to experiment with different sexual techniques, such as guided touch.
Physical appearance
The way that a person looks, including their height, weight, skin color and hair color, facial features, sexual organs, and other characteristics is considered a physical expression of identity. Some cultures place a great deal of importance on appearance, while others may not.
Gender non-conforming people are those who do not conform to the gender stereotypes that are traditionally associated with their birth gender. For example, a trans man who was raised and identifies as a girl might choose to play rough sports, hang out with boys, or wear stereotypically masculine clothing.
Research on the experiences of transgender people has shown that physical appearance plays a significant role in self-esteem and body acceptance. Some transgender men, especially those who are undergoing hormone therapy or have undergone surgery, want to maintain a feminine physique. This can lead to the development of risky eating habits. This can be countered by seeking comprehensive health care that includes gynecological services.
Mental health
Trans men may face mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. These concerns may be related to social stigma or the lack of support from loved ones. They can be addressed with therapy and stress management techniques. Those who are interested in getting help should contact local community centers or ask their therapist for suggestions. National hotlines are also available for support.
Studies have shown that TGD people experience higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicidality compared to those who are cisgender (non-transgender). However, few studies have explored the differences in these outcomes across sociodemographic characteristics.
TGD people who live in areas with more inclusive policies and greater protections have better mental health. Unfortunately, these benefits are being undermined by the rise of anti-LGBTQ legislation in many states. A 2023 study coauthored by industrial-organizational psychologist Lindsay Dhanani and Amherst College psychology professor Rebecca Totton found that the harm caused by these laws is not only direct, but indirect as well.