Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Gender Studies and Sexuality, 2024
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Caught Between the Binary: Exploring Dominant Representations of Detransition on TikTok
Kirsty Rackliff
ABSTRACT:
Detransition refers to the cessation of a gender transition, often with the intent of reverting to the assigned gender at birth (AGAB). Methodological challenges, such as inconsistent terminology and obstacles to access, mean there is currently a lack of conclusive data regarding the incidence and nature of detransition. Research exploring representations of detransition online has, consequently, also remained limited. As such, there is significant scope for pioneering research in this field. This paper details the research methods implemented during a pilot study of detransition narratives on social media platform TikTok. Drawing from Expósito-Campos’ (2021) and Hildebrand-Chupp’s (2020) typologies of detransition, research aimed to situate prevailing narratives of detransition in a broader sociopolitical context. 20 algorithmically sampled videos were transcribed and coded in accordance with the process of thematic analysis. Findings suggest that the prevailing narratives and themes of detransition on TikTok are: Medical Transition & Consent, Experiences of Transition/Detransition, and Detrans/Transphobia.
keywords: Gender; LGBTQ; Social Media; Transgender