Misconceptions and harmful stereotypes about transgender individuals are pervasive and contribute to discrimination and marginalization. Unlearning trans myths and stereotypes is an essential element of allyship and creating a more just world for trans people.

Common Myths and Facts

• Myth: Being transgender is a mental disorder.
  
  • Fact: The World Health Organization and the American Psychiatric Association recognize that being transgender is not a mental illness. Gender dysphoria, the distress that some trans people experience due to a mismatch between their gender identity and their sex assigned at birth, may be a diagnosable condition to access appropriate care.
• Myth: Being transgender is just a trend or a phase.
  
  • Fact: Transgender people have existed throughout history and across cultures. There is extensive scientific evidence supporting the validity of transgender identities.
• Myth: All transgender people want to transition medically.
  
  • Fact: Transitioning is deeply personal and looks different for everyone. Some trans people may choose medical interventions, like hormone therapy or surgery, while others may focus on social aspects of transition, such as name and pronoun changes or how they express their gender.
• Myth: Transgender people are predators.
  
  • Fact: This harmful myth fuels dangerous discrimination and violence against transgender people. Studies have shown that trans people are far more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators. [Citation 1]

Activities to Challenge Your Biases

• Reflect on your assumptions: What are some initial thoughts or images that come to mind when you think of transgender people? Examine where these ideas may stem from (media, stereotypes, etc.) and challenge them with factual information.
• Consume responsible media: Seek out books, documentaries, and articles created by transgender people and that center their experiences. Representation matters!
• Practice using correct language: Intentionally practice using someone’s chosen pronouns and name. If you make a mistake, apologize briefly and move on.

Resources for Deeper Learning about Trans Myths and Stereotypes

• GLAAD Media Reference Guide https://www.glaad.org/reference/transgender
• National Center for Transgender Equality: Understanding Issues Facing Transgender Americans https://transequality.org/issues
• The Trevor Project: Guide to Being an Ally: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/guide/a-guide-to-being-an-ally-to-transgender-and-nonbinary-youth/

Citations

1. Williams Institute School of Law: Transgender people over four times more likely than cisgender people to be victims of violent crime.