Meaning
What does Gender euphoria mean?
As the positive opposite of “gender dysphoria”, which trans people often experience while they are still in the wrong body, gender euphoria occurs when they have finally successfully transitioned into the body they feel comfortable in.
In fact, some argue that “gender euphoria” is actually the result of prolonged periods of dysphoria, because you are so used to living in sadness that even the tiniest bit of acceptance and joy feels euphoric.
Trans people may experience “gender euphoria” when they are finally addressed using the correct terms, when they can finally wear their preferred gendered clothing, or being invited to a gendered event, such as a bachelor party as a trans-man, or being a bridesmaid as a trans-woman.
Origin
What's the origin of Gender euphoria?
While “gender dysphoria” has existed as a diagnosis since the 80’s, “gender euphoria” is a much younger term, only appearing around 2010.
The term was cited in the research paper “From gender dysphoria to gender euphoria: An assisted journey”, written by E.E.P. Benestad and published in 2010.
Spread & Usage
How did Gender euphoria spread?
The phenomenon is mainly seen in trans people, although other individuals on the LGBTQ scale may also experience it.
Adrian Silbernagel from website queerkentucky defined “gender euphoria” as the bright side of the trans experience in 2019.
Also in 2019, Youtuber Ash Hardell uploaded his video called “Gender Euphoria” where he discusses the differences between dysphoria and euphoria, and how it feels to finally feel the happiness that comes with living as your preferred gender. The video was viewed over 102K times within a year.
External resources
- Gender Wiki – Gender Euphoria
- Queer Kentucky – Gender euphoria: The bright side of trans experience