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what is desisting?


Questions and answers for people who are questioning their gender identity.


Understanding Desisting and Detransitioning
Desisting and detransitioning are terms often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings within the transgender community. Detransitioning typically involves a complete reversal of the transition process, including stopping hormone treatments and reverting to one's birth-assigned gender. As one user explains, "Detransitition is fully stopping any medical transition if that's been happening, reversing its effects if viewed as desirable or necessary, and reversing any social or legal transition steps taken."esseldiji source [citation:87ac8881-4399-417c-a830-e80d6143b07f]. Desisting, on the other hand, may involve pausing or modifying one's transition without fully reverting to the original gender assignment.

Reasons for Desisting
Individuals may choose to desist from transitioning for various reasons, including reaching their transition goals, finding that hormone therapy doesn't work for them, or aligning more with a non-binary identity. Some may also desist due to external pressures or safety concerns. As one user notes, "Stopping T in hopes that you will be able to be seen as a woman so you won’t draw attention or suspicion of being trans has several problems."Emperor_Moth source [citation:e8d635cf-a217-43e2-9974-738b37292fde]. These decisions are deeply personal and can be influenced by a combination of internal reflections and external pressures.

Community Perception and Support
The transgender community generally views detransitioning as a personal choice that is morally neutral. It is not inherently negative unless used for transphobic purposes. Support within the community can vary, but there is an understanding that detransition is a complex and individual process. As one user emphasizes, "Detransitition is morally neutral and it's a personal choice. Nobody is a bad person for detransititioning."esseldiji source [citation:87ac8881-4399-417c-a830-e80d6143b07f].

Psychological and Social Influences
The decision to desist can be influenced by psychological realizations and social factors. Some individuals may experience a moment of clarity regarding the benefits of hormone therapy, which can reaffirm their decision to continue transitioning. As one user shares, "I realized I felt fine because I was on HRT and transitioning, and if I fell for that thought and stopped, I'd be right back where I started again."Confirm_restart source [citation:e624aaa9-f6ac-49bc-b9dc-b6fc776f2a87]. Social pressures, such as fear of violence or societal rejection, can also play a significant role in the decision-making process.

Conclusion
Desisting from transitioning is a deeply personal decision influenced by a variety of factors, including personal goals, external pressures, and psychological realizations. The transgender community generally supports individuals in making the choice that is right for them, recognizing that detransitioning is not inherently negative. Ultimately, the decision to desist or continue transitioning is about finding authenticity and comfort in one's identity, and each individual's journey is unique and valid.

The truth is that gender non-conformity will set us all free!

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