The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the lived experience of cross-dressing, to raise awareness of cross-dressing and investigate any possible implications for occupational therapy.
Method
A single design case study utilizing an unstructured interview was used with a male cross-dresser known to the first author. Following transcription, flexible and ongoing analysis was undertaken following an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach and emergent themes resulted in an ongoing literature review.
Findings
The themes that developed were ‘identity’, ‘dressing’ and ‘conflict’. A complexity of meanings related to cross-dressing also emerged: uncontrollable urge; erotic expression; sexual orientation; and a sense of completeness.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that cross-dressing is a meaningful occupation and as such influences identity formation and occupational choices. Occupational therapists have a duty of care to this vulnerable and alienated group within society.
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