Article: How Height Dysphoria Impacts TG People's Confidence & Transitions

[Carolyn Marie]

https://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/height-dysphoria-how-it-affects-transgender-people/

 

 

As AMAB I didn't like being 5'3" tall, but I never felt that it impacted me all that much.  I achieved success and respect.  Then again, if I had been taller, perhaps I would have gotten the career as a paramedic that I wanted.  We all have to come to terms with our limitations and self perceptions.  And yes, sometimes it's not easy.

 

Carolyn Marie

[awkward-yet-sweet]

I'm both short and slender.  While I feel like I probably should have had a male body, my proportions in the body I have make it unrealistic to expect to be treated like that.  When I pass as male, it js always as very young - as a teenage son or little brother.  Add in my non-aggressive personality....good luck. 🤭

 

In the USA, "manly" men are supposed to be 6ft+.  When I was dating, I noticed profiles of girls who specifically rejected men shorter than 6 ft.  And there have been studies showing that shorter guys get fewer promotions and make less money.  My husband is 5'8"-ish, and has learned to compensate by having a big and bold personality...which is somewhat a carefully crafted image.  How stressful!

 

I think that height matters to trans folks in terms of it being an added factor.  One or two small difficulties is annoying.  9 or 10 difficulties is overwhelming.  

 

 

[Charlize]

At 5’11 I often felt conspicuous early in transition.  I gained a great deal of confidence after striking up a conversation with a beautiful and tall manager of the local supermarket.  She was wearing heels and soon we were chatting.  She told me that one reason she had her position was that she towered above the owners.  
She was looking at her height as an advantage.  I have tried to simply remember that conversation when I’m concerned about my height.  
Unfortunately as I’m getting older and using a cane to get around I have the bent look of an old woman.  Funny how I can relate and chat with other older gals like myself. 
I just have to accept and enjoy what I’ve got instead of worrying about it.

 

Hugs,

 

Charlize

[miz miranda]

I'm a bit over 6'1 and can get very paranoid that everyone is looking at me. It erodes my confidence. I'm taller than average but not towering when in male mode.