Social Transitioning...

Is when a trans person changes how they express their gender to others. This could include using a new name, adopting different pronouns, or changing their appearance.

Medically reviewed by Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BC — By Zawn Villines on October 3, 2023

Measures that are not public, such as changes in how a person thinks of themselves or how they dress when they are alone, are part of an “internal” transition. There is no pressure to move from internal to public transitioning if a person does not feel safe, comfortable, or ready for this. [I believe that many crossdresser who do not go in public, are at this place.]   

What happens during social transition? 

Gender presentation is incredibly diverse, so there is no “correct” way to be any specific gender. For this reason, there is also no universal approach to socially transitioning. Trans people choose what happens.

In general, social transitioning involves telling others about being trans or expressing one’s gender differently in front of others. This is what makes the transition “social.”

Measures that are not public, such as changes in how a person thinks of themselves or how they dress when they are alone, are part of an “internal” transition. There is no pressure to move from internal to public transitioning if a person does not feel safe, comfortable, or ready for this.

If they do, some examples of things a person might do include:

• going by a different name
  
  
• using different pronouns
  
  
• wearing different clothing
  
  
• changing hairstyle or grooming habits
  
  
• adopting different ways of moving or speaking
  
  
• experimenting with different gender presentations
  
  
• telling others they are trans

Not everyone takes all these steps. The process can also be as fast or gradual as a person wants. For example, some people may tell their family about being trans long before they tell co-workers.

What are the types of transitioning? 

All forms of gender transition begin with an internal transition. [This could occur anytime during a person's life.] This occurs as a person recognizes they are trans and that their assigned sex is inconsistent with their gender.

From there, the steps people take while transitioning generally fall into one of three categories:

• Social transition: This is the transition to a new gender identity in a person’s relationships, behavior, or appearance.
  
  
• Legal transition: This is the process of becoming legally recognized as a different gender to the one doctors or caregivers assigned at birth. Sometimes, a legal transition is necessary for a person to have their gender fully affirmed at work or school. The process varies but can involve getting a new birth certificate and driver’s license.
  
  
• Medical transition: Medically transitioning, or obtaining gender affirming care, includes a range of medications and procedures. It might include hormone medications, surgeries to alter specific body parts, or procedures to change physical appearance.
  
  

Transitioning can involve myriad changes, but the specific changes are unique to each individual. For example, one person might pursue all three types, while another might choose only some.

Summary:

Socially transitioning can have mental health benefits for trans children, teenagers, and adults. It has little to no inherent risk.

Authentic Lives: Social Transition

WQED Pittsburgh