Is Being Trans an Illness?

Elle discusses the DSM-V and its sometimes implicit (or explicit) pathologizing of different ways of thinking and feeling. Digital versions of this book are widely available (here's the first google search result) and rightly so given that it is the dominant tool for understanding mental health problems by professionals today. Elle talks about how the term "Transvestitism" was recently applied in her work at a mental health clinic, and how this led to deeper thinking about the medicalization of transgender identities. She closes the episode by discussing the ways in which culture helps people make sense of their experiences for better or for worse. Additional resources for this week's show might include: This article, which discusses the history of Gender Dysphoria as a diagnostic concept.  The wikipedia article on transgender history  provides a solid introduction on the topic for people new to exploring how the phenomenon is considered by cultures throughout history and time. Abigail Thorn's (a PhD philosopher) personal and philosophical reflection on her experience with gender identity and transition. Her channel is the wildly popular Philosophy Tube. Watch this one. It's magnificent. Chat with her at [email protected]