Aspects of Gender
by
Lesley Gordon
1997, IFGE Publications
170 Pages
From the Cover Crossdressing (transvestitism), writes Leslie Gordon, is superficially a simple matter of persons of one sex wearing clothing traditionally worn by the other. It is in fact, however, quite a complex form of behavior. Thousands of people from all walks of life engage in it in one form or another. Its origins derive from a number of different roots and individuals crossdress for many different reasons. There are psychological and social aspects which have an important bearing on the CD's behavior and the CD's own view of self as well as society's view of the CD and, of particular importance, the relationship between the CD and his close associates, be they spouse, partner, colleagues or friends. It is to try to shed light on these various aspects of crossdressing that this book is written. The subject is discussed, also the multitude of questions and problems which trouble those concerned with crossdressing - questions raised not only by the CD but by spouses, partners, family and colleagues. Finally, for those who seek information on the subject as partners of a CD, as social workers or as counselors, I hope that this book, along with the information on my own personal life will provide at least the basis for understanding and tolerance. "Lesley Gordon, a happily married transvestite, has authored a fine book on crossdressing and most of its related issues. Aspects of Gender stands out! It is meaningful to both transvestites themselves trying to come to terms with their conditions and the general public without any knowledge at all on the topic. Gorgon's division of Behavioral/Environmental Origins and Biological Origins are well written and very sensible ways to begin his first few chatters. Needs and desires of transvestites, transsexuals are fairly described, as are the ranges of reactions good bad, fair, unfair and many in between from the rest of the world. Pros and cons regarding telling, not telling partners, family members, and close friends are well presented. There is a fairly good chapter on how to: select feminine clothing, shoes, walking, hair, basic makeup and cosmetic steps, and many of the considerations critical if one is to go out in public crossdressed. A very fine book written with seriousness considering the behaviors of transsexuality and transvestitism." - New York Girls Newsletter
Table of Contents 1. What is a Transvestite?
2. Origins of the Trangender Personality
3. The Satisfaction of a Fantasy
4. Sources of Hostility
5. To Tell Partner or Not?
6. How Do I Tell?
7. Learning to Live with Each Other
8. Is There A Cure?
9. The Transvestite as a Woman
10. Looking Good - Feeling Good
11. The Transvestite and the Law
12. Transsexualism - The Change of Gender
13. Case Notes
14. Help and Advice for the Transvestite
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