Taboo Science Trans 101: Everything You Think You Know (But Probably Don't)
Oct 2, 2025
Join Aaron Devor, Chair in transgender studies at the University of Victoria, along with paleontologist Riley Black and PhD student Hibby Thach, as they explore the complexities of being transgender. They debunk myths like the 'born in the wrong body' narrative and discuss the social visibility that leads more young people to identify as trans. The conversation reveals the spectrum of gender expression, the nuances of gender dysphoria, and emphasizes why understanding personal experiences is vital in affirming one's identity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Beyond The Born-In Narrative
- The "born in the wrong body" story fits some people but not all and was historically required to access care.
- Aaron Devor and Riley Black emphasize transness is multifaceted beyond that trope.
Trans People Are A Small Minority
- Trans people are rare in the population, roughly 0.3% in Canada overall and ~0.8% for Gen Z.
- Despite small numbers, trans people face outsized political attention and targeting.
Visibility Drives More Identification
- Rising visibility explains more young people identifying as trans rather than a contagion effect.
- Aaron Devor notes awareness, media, and community let people recognize and act on feelings earlier.
