What s the difference between a transvestive and a transsexual?

A transvestite is an individual who becomes sexually aroused by donning the apparel of the opposite sex, and a transsexual is one who strongly fools that he or she belongs to the opposite sex.

How can one diagnose transsexualism?

Transsexualism is an overriding feeling of discomfort with one’s anatomic sex and a constant desire to be rid of one’s genitals to become a member of the opposite sex. In other words, a male mind in a female’s body and vice versa. The diagnosis is made only if the disturbance has been continuous for at least two years; if there is no evidence of psychological disorder like schizophrenia; and is not associated with physical intersex or genetic abnormality. The differential diagnosis must be made among true transsexuaiism, transvestism and homosexuality. Physician should be aware that Gender transposition might occur in cases of severe personality disorganization associated with psychosis. A behavioral sex change may emerge even later in life in certain rare cases of temporal lobe epilepsy or as a consequence of senile dementia.

Are eunuchs transsexuals?

No. Eunuchs are not necessarily transsexuals. They are castrated males, who have had their testicles removed prior to puberty so that the secondary sexual characters do not develop. As against this, transsexuals are individuals who have an overwhelming desire to be the opposite sex.