Better Understanding the Crossdresser Population

Whether it is a touchy or seemingly taboo social topic, many people do not seek clarification regarding what it means to be a crossdresser, transvestite, or transsexual individual.  In some cases, the terms overlap, and in other ways, the words are mutually exclusive.  Understanding proper terminology shows respect for different populations of people.  We are all people, but being unique is important.  Read on to better understand what it means to be a crossdresser.

To start, there is still some debate and sensitivity related to the objectivity of terms.  The purpose of the article is to help people better understand what it means to be a crossdresser and in no ways implies insult or objection to the lifestyles and beliefs of any individuals.

Let's explore the term transgender, which is loosely understood to signify a person who feels their sex is different from the one provided at birth.  A transgendered person may have genitalia aligning them with a particular sex, yet associate psychologically and otherwise with the opposite sex.  It has been described as feeling as if a person is in the "wrong body."  A crossdresser may be a man at birth and have male genitalia, yet dresses and acts as a woman because they truly believe that is their proper orientation.

A crossdresser typically wears clothing commonly associated with the opposite sex.  For instance, it's common to see women wearing dresses but not men.  A male crossdresser may choose to don dresses or other clothing articles traditionally aligned with women.  In some cases, "transgender" may signify a person who has undergone a sex change.  In this case, a crossdresser, maintaining original genitalia may not self label as a "transgender" individual.

It may also be offensive to label someone a "drag queen."  It's loosely understood drag queens are males who dress as women for the purpose of entertainment.  Shows may take place at casinos, nightclubs, and other venues.  Shows may be assembled to entertain people of all sexual orientations.

A female crossdresser, dressing as a man, may be labeled a "drag king."  Like drag queen shows, drag king shows are popular around the nation and meant for the entertainment of individuals of all sexual orientations.

The term, "transsexual" has recently gained the reputation of an outdated and possibly insulting label.  The latter reception may be due to the term being present in literature where transgendered or crossdresser behavior is labeled as negative or socially unacceptable.

It's best to discuss the lifestyles and "labels" on a case-by-case basis.  Some terms can be hurtful to specific individuals.  Each person deserves the respect of others.  It's encouraged to do more research on crossdressers to better understand their behavior and lifestyle choices.