Trans embodiment refers to the process by which individuals who identify as transgender physically transition their bodies from one gender to another through hormone therapy, surgeries, and sometimes even voice training. This transition can have profound effects on an individual's sense of self, both psychologically and socially, as it challenges traditional norms about what constitutes masculinity and femininity and how these are expressed through bodily forms. In this article, I will explore how trans embodiment disrupts the phenomenological link between physicality and identity coherence, examining how trans individuals experience their bodies differently before and after transitioning and discussing the implications for their social experiences and interactions.
Trans embodiment and physicality
Before transitioning, many trans people feel that their physical form does not align with their internal sense of gender identity.
Someone assigned female at birth may feel like they have always been male on the inside, while someone assigned male may feel more comfortable expressing themselves as female. The mismatch between physical appearance and inner sense of self can be extremely distressing, leading some trans individuals to seek medical interventions in order to achieve a closer match between the two. This can involve taking hormones to alter physical characteristics (e.g., facial hair growth) or undergoing surgery to change genitalia or other features.
Transitioning can be a lengthy and expensive process, but it can also be life-changing for those who choose to pursue it. Many trans individuals report feeling more confident, empowered, and authentic after completing their transition, allowing them to fully embody the gender they have always felt themselves to be.
The process is not without its difficulties, as individuals may face discrimination and stigma from both within and outside the trans community.
Some physical changes, such as voice modification, require extensive practice and training to master, adding another layer of complexity to the transition process.
Identity coherence and trans embodiment
Physical changes are only one part of the story when it comes to trans embodiment; there is also the issue of how these changes affect an individual's sense of identity coherence. As described by philosopher Elizabeth Grosz, "coherence" refers to the idea that our identities are formed through our interactions with others and the world around us, creating a consistent and integrated whole that allows us to make sense of ourselves and our place in the world. Trans embodiment challenges this sense of coherence, as individuals must navigate new social norms and expectations related to gender expression while also adjusting to their changed physical appearance.
Someone assigned female at birth may find that they are treated differently once they present as male post-transition, leading to questions about whether they have truly become male or if they simply "pass" as such. Similarly, someone who has undergone surgery to remove breasts may feel that their femininity is called into question, even though they still identify as female on the inside. These issues can create feelings of dissonance and confusion, as individuals grapple with what it means to be "male" or "female," and how those labels apply to them now that their bodies have changed.
Implications for social experiences
The impact of trans embodiment on social experiences cannot be overstated. Trans individuals may face discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and other areas due to their perceived nonconformity to traditional gender roles. They may also struggle to form meaningful relationships with others who do not understand their identity, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. At the same time, some trans people find that transitioning opens up new possibilities for connection and community, allowing them to meet like-minded individuals who share similar experiences and struggles.
Trans embodiment also raises important questions about the role of the body in identity formation more broadly. If our bodies play a significant role in shaping our sense of self, then what does it mean when we change these physical characteristics? Can we truly change our gender, or is it something that is inherent from birth? And how do we navigate the tension between our inner sense of self and the expectations placed upon us by society based on our physical appearance? These are complex questions that continue to challenge both philosophers and laypeople alike, but they point to the importance of exploring the interplay between embodiment and identity coherence in understanding the human experience.
How does trans embodiment disrupt the phenomenological link between physicality and identity coherence?
Trans embodiment can significantly challenge individuals' perception of their physical bodies and identities as they attempt to align their bodily experience with their gender identity. This process is often referred to as "phenomenological mismatch" and can lead to various emotional and psychological consequences such as feelings of confusion, discomfort, anxiety, or dysphoria.