Performing Transgender Desire Through Cross Dressing: Socio-Economic Factors and Implications of the Phenomenon in Pakistani Society
Abstract
Despite being socially disapproved and contradictory to the cultural and religious values, the practice of cross dressing is in vogue in Pakistani society. This qualitative research study aimed at in-depth exploration of phenomenon of Male-to-Female (MTF) cross dressing as well as its socio-economic implications for the family life of cross dressers. The study also intended to explore factors consequential to the raising trend of MTF cross dressing in Pakistani society. The study was conducted in twin cities i.e. Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A sample of twenty (20) MTF cross dressers was selected through purposive sampling technique. Interview guide was used as a tool of data collection. The collected data was analyzed through thematic analysis. Findings of the study revealed that inspiration & role modeling, peer group influence, amusement & entertainment, non-satisfaction with the gender identity and economic miseries were some major causative factors consequential to the MTF cross dressing. The findings also divulged that dual gender performance has severe socio-economic repercussions including migration, non-acceptance by the family & society, Non availability of favorable work conditions, stigmatization & victimization, facing discriminatory attitude, physical & sexual assault, sense of deprivation regarding rights, social security as well as economic issues. Dual gender performance has also strong negative influence on the family life of cross dressers. The study recommends that it is need of the hour to develop a mechanism of registration & certification for the real trans-people through their medical checkup so that effective policies, based on actual trans-population, may be formulated for the welfare of transgender community as well as to protect & safeguard their fundamental human rights.
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