Topic: Health

Originally appeared in Transgender Tapestry #102, Summer 2003.

by Milton Diamond, Ph.D.

Language is fluid. The use and meaning of words change constantly. In most cases, the new is incorporated with the old, so confusion is rare. The field of sexology, however, seems to have a particularly difficult time keeping up with all the shifts in terminology and usage. This is probably related to the multitudes of words used in sexual contexts, the double entendres that accompany many words, and the symbolic and socio-political nature of much that accompanies language. But there is obviously more to this. And if the terminology is confusing for those dealing with it daily, how much more difficult is it for those who come upon it only occasionally?for instance, reporters, historians, and laypersons?

Originally appeared in Transgender Tapestry #101, Spring 2003.

Making a Transition: A Guided Journey

? Have the participants get comfortable and close their eyes.
? After they have gotten settled, read them the following:

Your imagination is the key instrument in this exercise. We will be taking a journey through your mind?s eye of what life might be like if you were transsexual. You may experience a variety of feelings as you take this tour, but try not to let your feelings distract you from participating in the exercise. The goal is to help you understand some of the feelings and experiences of someone who is transsexual. The specific experiences I am about to guide you through are not universal for all transsexuals, but the general themes are representative.

Originally appeared in Transgender Tapestry #101, Spring 2003.

Originally appeared in Transgender Tapestry #98, Summer 2002.

by Tabbas

Transsexual people experience clash between subjective and objective conditions on a personal level. Specifically, their spiritual I occupies a body which materially impedes I?s goals. True?by scientific application, the body can be changed in accordance to I?s need. But science is seldom generous. Scientists are people, and people are political.