Blanchard's transsexualism typology

Blanchard's Transsexualism Typology

Blanchard's transsexualism typology is a psychological theory developed by Canadian sexologist Ray Blanchard in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This typology categorizes male-to-female transsexuals into two distinct groups based on their sexual orientation and underlying motivations for transitioning.

Overview

Blanchard's typology proposes that male-to-female transsexuals can be divided into two primary categories: "homosexual transsexuals" and "autogynephilic transsexuals." These categories are based on the individual's sexual orientation and the presence of autogynephilia, a term coined by Blanchard to describe a male's propensity to be sexually aroused by the thought or image of himself as a female.

Homosexual Transsexuals

According to Blanchard, homosexual transsexuals are individuals who are exclusively attracted to men and have a strong desire to live as women. These individuals often exhibit feminine behaviors and interests from a young age and seek gender transition primarily to align their physical appearance with their gender identity and sexual orientation.

Autogynephilic Transsexuals

Autogynephilic transsexuals, on the other hand, are described as individuals who are primarily attracted to the idea of themselves as women. Blanchard suggests that these individuals may be attracted to women, men, or both, but their primary motivation for transitioning is the erotic desire to embody a female identity. Autogynephilia is considered a paraphilia, where the individual experiences sexual arousal from the thought of being a woman.

Criticism and Controversy

Blanchard's typology has been the subject of significant debate and criticism within the transgender community and among researchers. Critics argue that the typology oversimplifies the complex experiences of transgender individuals and pathologizes their identities. Some researchers have questioned the empirical basis of Blanchard's theory and its applicability to the diverse experiences of trans people.

Impact and Influence

Despite the controversy, Blanchard's typology has influenced clinical practices and research on transgender issues. It has been referenced in discussions about the etiology of gender dysphoria and the classification of transsexualism in diagnostic manuals such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

See Also

• Ray Blanchard
• Autogynephilia
• Gender dysphoria
• Transgender