Gender Expression as a Reflection of Identity Reformation in Couple Partners Following Disclosure of Male-to-Female Transsexualism

This qualitative study examined gender expression as a reflection of identity reformation in male-to-female transsexual persons and their nontranssexual female partners following the disclosure of transsexualism in relationships that were established as man-woman. Each partner in 17 couples participated in individual interviews. The gender expression of each couple partner evolved as male-to-female persons progressed in their male-to-female transition. Three themes related to male-to-female gender expression emerged as the couples reformed their identities and relationships: (a) phases: exploration/experimentation, adolescence, and maturation; (b) (re)gendering as women: behavior and interactions; and (c) visual congruence: dual/single presentation and sex reassignment surgery.