Abstract
Despite much research into mate selection, non-heterosexual populations
are often only included for comparison purposes, while trans people and
their partners are overlooked. This study attempts to address this using
qualitative methodology to explore the mate selection of the partners of
trans people. Six participants were recruited from online communities and
interviewed via instant messaging, the results were then analysed using
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The author organised the results
into four themes. Theme one: Identities/relationships which defy
categorisation, Theme Two: Attractive traits and mate selection, Theme
Three: Impact of past romantic relationships, other relationships and life
changes and Theme Four: The self as a source of strength. These results
challenge the traditional conclusions of mate selection studies,
emphasising the need for more qualitative research. Key Words: Mate
Selection, Evolutionary Psychology, Sexual Identity, Transgender,
Relationships, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.
The present
study focuses on the mate selection behaviour of six people who are each
in a relationship with a trans person, examining whether mate selection
theory accounts for their behaviour and also investigating the experience
of choosing a partner who is trans. It is important however, to understand
what the theory of mate selection is, how it has been studied and what the
flaws are in the extant literature. This introduction will attempt to
provide
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Citation:
Amanda Forde