Social Contagion

In recent years, the terms “Social Contagion” and “Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria” (ROGD) have gained prominence in discussions surrounding transgender individuals. However, these terms are often employed by anti-trans activists to attack and delegitimise the experiences and identities of trans individuals. They are used to imply that people are trans solely due to external influences, eroding their agency and experiences.

The concept of Social Contagion suggests that individuals, particularly teenagers, increasingly identify as transgender as a result of social influence rather than a genuine understanding of themselves. This notion reduces being trans to a passing trend or peer pressure, akin to following popular culture. This phenomenon is also referred to as Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria (ROGD), insinuating an abrupt and unwarranted emergence of transgender identity.

Using Social Contagion or ROGD to explain the existence of trans people dismisses their authenticity and autonomy. It implies that they are not genuinely trans, but rather conforming to a trend or unduly influenced by peers. This harmful perspective undermines the lived experiences and struggles of trans individuals who have spent significant time grappling with their identities, societal expectations, and gender dysphoria.

The concept of Social Contagion and ROGD originated from a research paper by Lisa Littman in 2018 but subsequent research has debunked its findings. Littman’s study relied on parental reports instead of directly assessing trans individuals, introducing potential bias and failing to capture their nuanced experiences. The study’s sampling methodology heavily relied on online platforms frequented by concerned parents, resulting in a skewed and non-representative sample, undermining the validity and generalisability of the findings.

Trans individuals embark on profound and personal journeys of self-discovery, often seeking professional guidance and undergoing years of introspection. The concept of Social Contagion dismisses these experiences, oversimplifying the complexities of gender identity and belittling the courage required to embrace one’s true self.

It is noteworthy that the concept of Social Contagion and ROGD is frequently directed at trans men, introducing an element of infantilisation. This perpetuates harmful stereotypes, suggesting that trans men are easily swayed or incapable of making informed decisions about their own identities. Such a patronising attitude undermines the autonomy and respect that trans men deserve.

The recent increase in the number of people identifying as trans can be attributed to factors such as growing acceptance and recognition of the transgender community, heightened awareness of trans experiences, and advancements in transgender healthcare. Increased acceptance has fostered a safer environment for individuals to explore and express their gender authentically. Heightened awareness has dismantled stereotypes and provided social support, while advancements in healthcare have improved access to gender-affirming treatments, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.

Using terms like Social Contagion and ROGD as weapons against trans individuals undermines their experiences, and autonomy. By insinuating that they identify as trans solely due to external influences, this harmful narrative diminishes their authenticity and the challenges they face. Challenging these anti-trans narratives is crucial to fostering understanding and providing support for trans individuals to live authentically and with dignity.