The use of defensive masculinities by transgender men in the South African workplace

Abstract

Psychological research which focuses on the experience of transgender people, while increasing, remains scarce. This is particularly so within the South African environment and is especially salient at a time when transgender people and their rights are under increased scrutiny, with social discourse and discord around the integration of transgender people in broader society increasing. This qualitative study focuses specifically on transgender men, aiming to explore transgender men’s expressions of masculinity in the South African workplace, with a specific focus on defensive masculinities and the impact on mental health. Data for the research was collected through semi-structured interviews with seven participants and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The findings of this study indicate that transgender men practice defensive masculinities in the South African workplace, and that they are particularly aware of how they present in relation to their gender expression in their places of work. The study suggests that this negatively impacts their mental health and sense of well-being. This finding highlights the need for increased consideration of a population which is at notable risk for developing mental health difficulties. The study makes recommendations for future research which would deepen an understanding of the issues and challenges which this minority group face on a daily basis in their workplaces, against the backdrop of an essentially conservative sociopolitical climate in South Africa. An over-riding objective of the study is to increase awareness of transgender people, and to deepen an understanding of their lived experiences.