Traversing the gender divide: a trans masculine genderqueer psychologist’s journey in be(com)ing.
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Authors
McLachlan, Christine
Issue Date
2025-02
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
In this thesis, I explore the growth and development of gender-affirming healthcare (GAHC) and trans and/or gender-diverse (TGD) communities’ engagement with mental healthcare in South Africa since 2010. As a trans masculine, genderqueer person, I share my deeply personal journey and lived experience of social and medical transitioning. This journey encompasses self-discovery in order to live my true and authentic self. The thesis employs SPN and autoethnography as methodologies. These methodologies place the researcher within the first-person perspective and allow for an exploration of lived experiences, in my case as both a trans person and as a mental healthcare provider, clinical psychologist, trainer, educator, advocate for my TGD clients, and activist within GAHC. In combining personal narratives with scholarly analysis, this thesis offers a nuanced perspective that values academic rigour and improves accessibility. Autoethnography also enables me to critically reflect on the experiences and knowledge I have gained, and how these intersect with broader socio-political contexts. Furthermore, the study highlights the successes and barriers within GAHC in South Africa by exploring the development of the first South African guideline focussing on GAHC and the establishment of the Professional Association for Transgender Health South Africa (PATHSA). GAHC in South Africa is based on affirmation, decolonisation and the Ubuntu/participatory model. As a psychologist I also explore the role of the mental healthcare provider within GAHC and TGD communities. As each TGD person’s journey is unique, due to the particular needs and challenges that they experience, I incorporate some of these narratives within this thesis. The research is intended to serve healthcare providers, policymakers, and TGD communities. To enhance accessibility, the thesis avoids academic jargon, embraces affirmative language and incorporates multimedia elements such as music, images, graphs and external resources. By traversing personal insight and scholarly discourse, the primary aim is to contribute to meaningful change in the landscape of GAHC in South Africa. Secondarily, the thesis may also inform related developments internationally.
Description
English, Zulu and Afrikaans