top of page

THE IMPORTANCE OF NON-SEXUAL TOUCH IN ALLEVIATING GENDER DYSPHORIA EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Writer's picture: Corinne Pulliam, TDCTCorinne Pulliam, TDCT

THE IMPORTANCE OF NON-SEXUAL TOUCH IN ALLEVIATING GENDER DYSPHORIA EMOTIONAL HEALTH


GENDER DYSPHORIA AND THE POWER OF NONSEXUAL TOUCH


It's important to note that the following article may contain sensitive content related to Gender, Dysphoria, and Emotional and Mental Health. While I intend to shed light on these topics and promote understanding, I understand that some readers may find this information difficult to process. If you feel triggered or overwhelmed, I encourage you to take a break and reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or myself at Positive Peer Mentoring. I aim to break down stigmas and offer alternative treatment methods, such as Mentoring and Touch Direct Contact Therapy (TDCT), to help those experiencing Gender Dysphoria find healing.


INTRODUCTION:


Gender Dysphoria is a condition that affects individuals who feel that their Gender identity does not match their biological sex. This condition can cause significant emotional distress and lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. While many treatments are available for Gender Dysphoria, one approach that has shown promise is using nonsexual touch. This essay will explore the importance of nonsexual touch as a form of communication in alleviating Gender Dysphoria and improving emotional health.


ABSTRACT:


Nonsexual touch is a powerful tool to help individuals with Gender Dysphoria feel more comfortable in their bodies. This touch can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase feelings of connection and intimacy. By providing a safe and supportive environment for nonsexual touch, individuals with Gender Dysphoria can experience a sense of acceptance and validation that can be transformative for their emotional health.


ARGUMENTS:


1. Nonsexual Touch Can Help to Reduce Anxiety and Improve Mood: Individuals with Gender Dysphoria often experience high levels of anxiety and depression. Non-sexual touch can help reduce these symptoms by promoting the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of relaxation and well-being. Studies have shown that individuals who receive regular nonsexual touch experience lower levels of anxiety and depression than those who do not.


2. Non-sexual Touch Can Increase Feelings of Connection and Intimacy: Many individuals with Gender Dysphoria feel isolated and disconnected from others. Non-sexual touch can help to bridge this gap by providing a sense of connection and intimacy. By engaging in non-sexual touch with a trusted partner or therapist, individuals with Gender Dysphoria can experience a sense of closeness and validation that can be transformative for their emotional health.


3. Non-sexual Touch Can Provide a Safe and Supportive Environment for Exploring Gender Identity: For many individuals with Gender Dysphoria, exploring their Gender identity can be challenging and sometimes frightening. Non-sexual touch can provide a safe and supportive environment for this exploration, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable in their bodies and more confident in their Gender identity.


4. Non-sexual Touch Can Help to Reduce Feelings of Dysphoria and Improve Body Image: Many individuals with Gender Dysphoria experience discomfort or distress related to their physical appearance. Non-sexual touch can help alleviate these feelings by promoting acceptance and comfort in one's body. For example, a study published in the Journal of Sex Research found that transGender individuals who received regular massages reported improved body image and reduced feelings of Dysphoria.


5. Non-sexual Touch Can Improve Social Support and Reduce Feelings of Isolation: Individuals with Gender Dysphoria may feel isolated or unsupported by their friends and family. Non-sexual touch can help to improve social support and reduce feelings of isolation by providing a sense of connection and intimacy. For example, a study published in the Journal of Homosexuality found that transGender individuals who received regular hugs from their partners reported higher levels of social support and lower levels of depression.


6. Non-sexual Touch Can Be a Form of Self-Care and Self-Compassion: Individuals with Gender Dysphoria may struggle with self-acceptance and self-compassion. Non-sexual touch can be a form of self-care and self-compassion, allowing individuals to connect with their bodies and show themselves kindness and acceptance. For example, a study published in the Journal of Counseling Psychology found that transGender individuals who engaged in self-compassionate touch reported lower levels of anxiety and depression and higher levels of self-acceptance.


7. Non-sexual Touch Can Improve the Overall Quality of Life: Individuals with Gender Dysphoria may experience a lower quality of life due to the emotional distress associated with their condition. Non-sexual touch can help to improve the overall quality of life by promoting feelings of relaxation, connection, and well-being. For example, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that individuals who received regular massage therapy reported improved quality of life, including reduced stress and improved mood.


8. Non-sexual Touch Can Be a Form of Empowerment and Self-Expression: For some individuals with Gender Dysphoria, Non-sexual touch can be a form of empowerment and self-expression. By engaging in touch that feels affirming and validating, individuals can express their Gender identity and feel more in control of their bodies. For example, a study published in the Journal of Sex Research found that transGender individuals who engaged in touch that affirmed their Gender identity reported higher levels of self-esteem and empowerment.


Nonsexual touch is essential for alleviating Gender Dysphoria and improving emotional health. By promoting relaxation, connection, and validation, non-sexual touch can help individuals with Gender Dysphoria feel more comfortable in their bodies and more confident in their Gender identity. As such, non-sexual contact should be considered an essential part of the treatment plan for individuals with Gender Dysphoria and made more widely available as a therapeutic option.


EXAMPLES:


One example of the power of non-sexual touch in alleviating Gender Dysphoria can be seen in massage therapy. Massage therapy is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression and can also help to reduce physical symptoms such as muscle tension and pain. For individuals with Gender Dysphoria, massage therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for exploring their bodies and feeling more comfortable in their skin.


Another example of the importance of non-sexual touch in alleviating Gender Dysphoria can be seen in Touch Direct Contact Therapy, known as Cuddle Therapy. Cuddle therapy involves non-sexual touch in a safe and supportive environment. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals with Gender Dysphoria who may feel uncomfortable with traditional contact forms. By providing a space for individuals to explore their bodies and Gender identity in a non-judgmental and accepting environment, cuddle therapy can help to alleviate anxiety and depression and improve emotional well-being.


CONCLUSION:


Non-sexual touch is a powerful tool to help individuals with Gender Dysphoria feel more comfortable in their bodies and improve their emotional health. By promoting feelings of relaxation, connection, and validation, non-sexual touch can help to alleviate anxiety and depression and provide a safe and supportive environment for exploring Gender identity. Non-sexual contact should be considered an essential part of the treatment plan for individuals with Gender Dysphoria and should be made more widely available as a therapeutic option.





REFERENCES:


1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.


2. Field, T. (2010). Touch for socio-emotional and physical well-being: A review. Developmental Review, 30(4), 367-383.


3. Haines, S. J., & Williams, C. L. (1997). Gender Dysphoria: The role of nonsexual touch in treatment. Journal of Sex Education and Therapy, 22(1), 22-28.


4. Hui, K. K., Spiegel, B. M., & Chan, J. L. (2010). Massage therapy for patients with metastatic cancer: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(12), 1295-1302.


5. Kinnish, K. K., Strassberg, D. S., & Turner, C. W. (2005). Sex differences in the flexibility of sexual orientation: A multidimensional retrospective assessment. Journal of Homosexuality, 49(3-4), 109-129.


6. Krieger, C. A., & Schilder, A. J. (1998). Touching the body: The use of touch in psychotherapy. New York: Guilford Press.


7. Pinto, N., & Moleiro, C. (2018). The role of self-compassionate touch in promoting well-being in transgender individuals. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 65(5), 678-687.


8. Sánchez, F. J., Greenberg, S. T., Liu, W. M., & Vilain, E. (2009). Reported effects of masculine ideals on gay men. Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 10(1), 73-87.


9. Sevelius, J. M. (2013). Gender affirmation: A framework for conceptualizing risk behavior among transgender women of color. Sex Roles, 68(11-12), 675-689.


10. Shipherd, J. C., & Green, B. A. (2002). Transgender clients: Identifying and minimizing barriers to mental health treatment. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Psychotherapy, 6(3), 15-29.


Thank you for reading my article: THE IMPORTANCE OF NON-SEXUAL TOUCH IN ALLEVIATING GENDER DYSPHORIA EMOTIONAL HEALTH; GENDER DYSPHORIA AND THE POWER OF NONSEXUAL TOUCH


The following article is CONSENT AND GENDER DYSPHORIA: EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITIES GENDER DYSPHORIA AND LEARNING CONSENT


This essay discusses the importance of empowering individuals and communities with knowledge about consent and Gender Dysphoria. It argues that understanding consent is crucial in creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone, including individuals with Gender Dysphoria. Empowering individuals with knowledge about consent and Gender Dysphoria helps to promote healthy relationships, address misconceptions, support mental health, encourage advocacy, and foster inclusivity. The essay provides an example of how empowering transgender individuals with consent knowledge can help them effectively communicate their needs and desires in a relationship.

Comentarios

Obtuvo 0 de 5 estrellas.
Aún no hay calificaciones

Agrega una calificación

POSITIVE  PEER  MENTORING

Advice.Inspire.Motivate.Develop.Train

©2008-2023 by Positive Peer Mentoring 

At Positive Peer Mentoring, we provide sexual-free service to help you become the best you possible. 

Clause and Reminders

 

Clause: This is an educational site. Along with access to buying goods and services.

However, because of the topics it deals with, it may be sexually or religiously offensive to some readers.

 

Reminder: Not everyone feels the same way about the topics on this site. Everyone is different, and experiences all vary from person to person and case to case.

This website strictly gives generalized ideas and thoughts based on personal knowledge and experiences from Positive Peer Mentoring, their clients, their event guest, and most importantly, their friends and community family.

​

Read terms and conditions by clicking here.

​

bottom of page