“I am Not a Macho, I am a Man”: Identity Construction of Trans Men in Santiago, Chile

Abstract

The study of masculinities in Latin America is becoming increasingly relevant; however, trans men (TM) have been highly disregarded. This is problematic, given that the transmasculine population can highlight tension upon the binary gender practices. Latin American research has maintained a biomedical perspective, with emphasis on sexual readjustment treatments, ignoring the subjective experience of TM regarding their identity construction, and the sociocultural implications of experiencing their identity as men, considering Latin American gender patterns and machismo. Under this premise, 14 Chilean TM were interviewed. Results show the heteronormative demands imposed on TM, which determine the expectations and interpretations associated with their transition process. This leads TM to perpetuate stereotypical gender patterns, which is a survival strategy, and at the same time promotes the maintenance of patriarchal privileges. In a transversal manner, it was observed that TM have new perspectives on masculinity, which allow for the questioning of traditional gender roles.