I'm in a Psychology of gender class this semester and I'm going to speak before the class about trans people. Does anyone have any suggestions of what to cover? I have some ideas and the instructor wants me to help clarify the difference between transgender, transsexual, ect., but I want to make sure I'm not leaving out anything important.
I'm not going to be speaking for very long, so I'm mainly trying to focus on general knowledge and breaking negative stereotypes since the only experience the class has with trans people is through popular media.
If you have the time, it's worth noting that gender/gender identity and sexuality are different. Many MtFs get stereotyped as gay guys wanting to be women (or as ->-bleeped-<-s), when in fact MtFs (as well as FtMs) can run the entire spectrum (gay, bi, straight, omni, etc.).
Tell them not to confuse transexuals with what they see on the Jerry Springer show - those are ->-bleeped-<-s and cross-dressers. xD
I'm a crossdresser. The people you see on Springer are paid actors. Please don't use your time in front of the class throwing anyone under the bus. Hugs, Tracey
I concur with Tracy. I know people who've been on Springer several times, as several different people. It's fake.
Be objective and clear with your words, as much as possible. Don't overcomplicate things.