Trans Terminology and Definitions in Research on Transphobia: A conceptual review

Abstract

The understanding of transphobia and discrimination against trans people depends on the definition itself of ‘trans people’. However, trans terminology is not unambiguous. In this paper I identify terms and definitions commonly used in contemporary scientific research on transphobia (2005-2016) in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese. A review of literature and a qualitative content analysis were carried out. Eight themes were identified within the definitions: identity, expression, sex-gender binary, man-woman binary, body modifications, medical diagnosis, anti-pathological claim and political claim. Different terms are used to emphasise different definitions . I argue that the polysemy of trans terminology raises a concern for studies relying on a fixed and robust definition of trans people. Moreover, research should pay attention to the definitions that it establishes and their effects. Examining gender norms and relying on trans people’s self-definitions seems a more fertile approach to understanding transphobia.