3 Phases of Denial Trans & Non Binary Go Through!
Dr. Z breaks down the three most common phases of denial people experience when discovering their gender identity or going through transition. Denial is a powerful psychological defense mechanism where you tell yourself something happening isn't true—it can last years or even decades, making it challenging to recognize you're even in denial.
The first phase: complete disavowal—"this isn't happening to me, this can't be gender dysphoria." Many engage in compensation behaviors like joining the military or adopting hypermasculine/hyperfeminine roles to sustain the denial. Some even seek therapy hoping to be told they're wrong about themselves.
The second phase: internal bargaining—acknowledging incongruency exists but constantly adding "but." "Yes, I have dysphoria, but it's probably just porn addiction. Yes, but it's too late for me." You're acknowledging something's there while still denying what you can do about it.
The third phase: external denial—you've accepted you're trans or nonbinary and are taking steps toward authenticity, but now judge other trans people. "I'm not like them, I'll never look/behave like that." This reflects internalized transphobia and fear about your own possibilities.
Watch to understand these patterns and recognize where you might be.
