Jackie Lawrence
EDF 2085
Reflection Paper #20
There are three different types of intersexuality, and all three represent a person with atypical sexual genitalia. A hermaphrodite is a person who was born with only one ovary and one testis. There are also male and female pseudohermaphrodites, who possess the external organs of one sex and the internal organs of the other sex. Males have testis and a female-like vulva, and females have ovaries along with a penis. Both produce estrogen and androgen. Since gender roles are a product of culture, it becomes the person’s job to distinguish which sex they feel more comfortable adhering to. Intersexuality is mainly caused by genetics or abnormal hormone levels during pregnancy.
Transsexuals, on the other hand, are completely different. They are born with anatomy that bears no physical abnormality, but to them it’s wrong. They associate themselves as having Gender Identity Disorder (GID), being biologically male or female, but feeling their gender identity is the opposite. They often feel trapped, and many become transvestites, dressing up in clothes of the other sex. Transsexuals truly believe they were born the wrong gender. So even though they may display homosexual tendencies, they consider themselves straight. Additionally, they seek to be with someone who is straight as well. Transsexuality is mainly caused by stress-related hormonal changes during pregnancy. Some transsexuals ultimately choose sexual reassignment surgery to fix their problem. The surgery is an extremely long and expensive process; the “half-way” phase can take up to two years, but ultimately better than a lifetime trying to cease the suffering.
Both intersexuality and transsexuality can cause feelings of shame, guilt, and self-loathing for the individual. These feelings cause such an intense amount of suffering that fifty percent die before the age of thirty. Interestingly, transsexuals are more intelligent and creative than the average human being, most likely because their brain wiring is so unique. Studies suggest that transsexuality occurs in most, if not all, mammals, and has occurred throughout history. I found the readings extremely interesting and helpful. With anything else that is foreign and unusual to me, education and exposure will help establish a knowledge base.
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"A turtle has a beautiful protective little home he can hide himself in as he pleases. He could only be naked if he showed his true personality at all times. Dogs, by nature, are naked constantly: it is obvious what they are feeling no matter what."
ReplyDeleteGood Quote, However what purpose does a beautiful shell or "home" if the turtle when retracting in its confort zone he is alone? why hide ones personality and only expose when needed and hide it when in fear? However dogs might be naked, that much is right but will a dog ever look down on you? or will a dog always portray happiness and a simple toy and a treat can have him content. will a dog hide himself? or his love and affection or will he be loyal to its owner and remain true to him? i guess what i disagree in is the analogy of the turtle being the "cooler" animal! lol for i feel we should always be ourselfs and never hide who we are when in fear. dont you agree?
lol ur a very smart girl jackie keep up ur determination n u will achieve whatever u choose. u intrigued me greatly and stumbled onto ur blog profile and was shocked by the level of intelect u have. and in girls as beautiful as urself thats rare if not impossible :) (sorry for mispelling and any gramatical errors typing from my phone :))