2 Main Reasons Why You Want to Socially Immerse Yourself!
What is social immersion or social integration, and why is it important for trans people? Dr. Z explains two main benefits she sees when people actually socially immerse themselves.
Social immersion means putting yourself into broader social situations—a variety of experiences (gender-wise, demographic-wise, situation-wise). Think bigger Petri dish with a bigger scope. Dr. Z uses the ship metaphor: you're a ship in the center of the ocean. Your starting point is isolation (your comfort zone because it feels safe. Next level: queer spaces (LGBTQ groups, trans friends, online communities, this YouTube channel—safe and inclusive). Beyond that: a social immersion space where all types of people coexist doing things that have nothing to do with gender—restaurants, concerts, book clubs, gym, hiking.
Two major benefits of social immersion: (1) Drastically minimizes imposter syndrome—repeated experiences make you feel you belong, you can handle scenarios, most people don't care, and confidence grows. (2) Broadens your internal lens beyond seeing everything through gender—you realize there's more to life, and stop automatically thinking "it's because I'm trans" when things happen.
Watch to find out why pushing outside comfort zones matters, when to do it, and how to stay safe while immersing yourself.
