Pushing Boundaries: A Lecture on Gender Dysphoria

Often misunderstood and frequently stigmatised, gender dysphoria is a mental condition almost always associated with transgender individuals. It is an incredibly nuanced topic, with the scietific and medical elements intrinsically linked with the development of social attitudes towards trans people. In this lecture, we'll be discussing how gender dysphoria has been identified and treated by the medical community over the last 150 years, and how our current perceptions shape the way in which it is treated. We'll also be exploring treatments, from reconstructive surgery to hormone replacement therapy, and some of the controversial areas of these treatments.

Emma Underwood is a trans woman and activist, with a degree in English and Related Literature from the University of York, and specialises in queer and gender theory. Her research after university life has focused on trans history, and the intersections of gender identity and power structures. After working as RHSU's Campaigns and Communications Coordinator, she has recently moved on to a new role at the LGBT Foundation, as their Trans Programme Officer.