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Transsexuals in the military: flight into hypermasculinity
1Department of Mental Health/SGHA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio 45433-5300.
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|December 1, 1988
Summary
This study examined male gender dysphoria in military personnel, finding a potential link between a hypermasculine developmental phase and military enlistment. Military policies may contribute to a higher prevalence of transsexualism within the armed forces.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Military Medicine
Background:
- Investigates gender dysphoria in male military personnel.
- Examines 11 male patients meeting DSM-III criteria for transsexualism.
- Focuses on individuals with military experience, including combat duty.
Observation:
- A hypermasculine developmental phase was identified in nearly all patients.
- This phase coincided with the typical age of military enlistment.
- Psychodynamic factors influencing enlistment choices in transsexual males were explored.
Findings:
- Over 60% of patients experienced premature military discharge.
- Military management of gender-dysphoric servicemen was documented.
- A proposed hypermasculine phase and current military policies may increase transsexualism prevalence in the military.
Implications:
- Suggests military policies may inadvertently foster higher rates of transsexualism.
- Highlights the need to understand developmental phases in relation to military service.
- Informs potential adjustments to military healthcare and personnel policies for gender-dysphoric individuals.