Transformative Narratives: An Analysis of the Construction of Trans childhood health narratives cultivated by popular Youtube content creators

Albert, Hope

Transformative Narratives: An Analysis of the Construction of Trans childhood health narratives cultivated by popular Youtube content creators

Persistent URL

http://hdl.handle.net/10456/48454

Author(s)

Albert, Hope

Date Issued

May 1, 2019

Abstract

Within the United States and many Westernized cultures, gender and sex are viewed dichotomously. Gender roles and social expectations are deeply embedded in various systemic institutions. As a consequence, transgender individuals are subject to stigma and discrimination at individual, interpersonal, and structural levels. Recently, gender identity is being questioned at younger ages, yet there is a significant lack of research dedicated to the vulnerable demographic of the trans youth. Many trans individuals take to the video streaming platform, Youtube, to document their experiences with the social and medical obstacles associated with transition. This viral community serves as a way to share information, advice, opinions, and experiences gained by identifying as transgender in the United States. With views and subscribers soaring into the millions, it is safe to say their video content is attracting a large audience. Although transitioning does not require full medical transition, the narratives analyzed in this project suggest otherwise. This project identifies a normative narrative in which Youtube trans youth personalities emphasize the need for medical interventions, and construct their audience as trans individuals who also desire permanent body change through medical means. As a result, this viral community reinforces existing gender norms and reestablishes a relationship between one’s body and gender identity.

Major

Global Health Studies

Honors

Global Health Studies, 2019

First Reader(s)

Silva, Vesta T.