The Construction of Trans Identity

There has been a shift in the way in which transness is conceptualised. Being trans is no longer viewed as a pathology but rather as an identity that is assimilated and accommodated within the self-concept and expressed in various ways to other people. In this chapter, the construction, management and protection of trans identity are outlined. First, trans coming out models are critically evaluated. Second, minority stress theory is discussed with reference to the stressors that trans women living with HIV may face. Third, identity process theory from social psychology is proposed as an integrative framework within which stressors, identity development and coping can be collectively examined. Fourth, some empirical research into trans identity development is discussed, and the importance of using a theoretical framework which can capture both the multiplicity of identity and the various levels at which identity management operates is illustrated.