The relationship of male transsexual typology to psychosocial adjustment

Abstract

In a search to uncover variables predictive of psychosocial adjustment of male transsexuals, this study examined features which have been empirically linked to characteristics of male transsexual typology. Data from 25 male transsexual volunteers were examined by means of multiple regression analysis to determine whether symptoms of introversion, depression, or tension, as well as adjustment to work and gender reorientation could be linked to the typological variables of androphilia, gynephilia, cross-gender fetishism, feminine gender identity in childhood, and age of onset of transsexualism. Valid and reliable scales measuring the typological variables of erotic partner preference (androphilia and gynephilia), cross-gender fantasy in association with sexual arousal (cross-gender fetishism), and degree of feminine gender identity in childhood were used. Results indicate a significant relationship between social gender reorientation and the feature of androphilia and between work adjustment and gynephilia. This differential adaptation is explained in terms of the different course that transsexualism takes within each typological subgroup. These findings offer evidence as to why some transsexuals may more readily adopt a female gender identity than others. There was no relationship found between the typological features and those variables measuring psychological disturbance.