Crossing the gender divide

IDENTIFYING THE 'T GROUP'

"Trans" is sometimes used as shorthand for "transgender." While transgender is generally an appropriate term to use, not everyone whose appearance or behavior is gender-nonconforming can be identified as such.

There is no single explanation for why some people are transgender. Many experts believe that biological factors, such as genetic influences, prenatal hormone levels, and life experiences may all contribute to the development of a transgender identity.

Transgender people experience their sexual identity in a variety of ways, and may become aware of it at any age. Some can trace their identity and feelings back to their earliest memories. They may have vague feelings of not fitting in with other people of their assigned sex, or may actively wish to be something other than their assigned sex.

People can become aware of, or begin to explore and experience, gender-nonconforming attitudes and behaviors at any stage of their life.

Transgender people can be straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or asexual. Recent research has shown that changes in partner preference may occur during the transition process.

Post-transition, transgender people usually remain as attached to their loved ones as they were before. Some individuals that transition from one gender to another prefer to be referred to as male or female rather than transgender.

SOURCE: THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION

AT A GLANCE

LGBT LEGISLATION AROUND THE WORLD

The United States: Same-sex marriage is legal in 35 of the 50 states, and the District of Columbia, and same-sex partnerships are recognized in one state. The laws pertaining to adoption by gay and lesbian couples vary from state to state.

Argentina: Same-sex marriage became legal in 2010. Gays are allowed to adopt children and serve openly in the military. The country is also welcoming to its transgender population.

Belgium: In 2003, the country legalized same-sex marriage. Adoption by gay and lesbian couples has been legal since 2006.

Iceland: A 2010 parliamentary motion to allow same-sex partners to marry passed into law with little or no opposition. Adoption and co-parenting by gay and lesbian couples has been legal since 2006.

Canada: Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2005. Since 1992, the Canadian Armed Forces have had a policy of nondiscrimination, allowing gay people to serve in the military.