transphobia

Transphobia refers to a range of attitudes, beliefs, and actions that express aversion, fear, or hatred toward transgender people or toward those who are gender nonconforming. It encompasses both individual prejudice and structural discrimination embedded in laws, institutions, and social norms. The term is used to describe not only explicit hostility but also subtler forms that uphold a binary view of gender and privilege cisgender identities.

Manifestations of transphobia include insults, misgendering, and deadnaming, as well as exclusion from social spaces, harassment, and discrimination in employment, housing, or healthcare. It can appear in language, media representation, or institutional policies that deny or restrict access to gender-affirming care, identification documents, or participation in activities aligned with a person’s gender identity. Transphobia also contributes to violence against transgender people, including hate crimes.

The effects of transphobia are widespread, contributing to stigma, poorer mental health, and barriers to essential services. Transgender individuals often face higher risks of discrimination in education, employment, healthcare, and housing, and may experience chronic stress linked to anticipation of harassment or violence.

Efforts to counter transphobia include education about gender diversity, the use of correct names and pronouns, and policies that protect against discrimination and harassment. Media representation, inclusive healthcare practices, and supportive community resources can reduce stigma. Legal protections, advocacy for rights to recognition and bodily autonomy, and bystander intervention are commonly emphasized components of broader strategies to foster safety and equality for transgender people.