(De)construction of Masculinities of Trans Men, between Portugal and Brazil

Abstract

(De)construction of Masculinities of Trans Men, between Portugal and Brazil

The present paper aims to explore the ways in which trans men (de)construct their masculinities while having to deal with the impositions to adhere to hegemonic masculinity. Based on social constructionism and queer theory, we seek to deconstruct dominant models that restrict their experiences. We interviewed 12 trans men, in Portugal and Brazil, and then carried out a thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke 2006). From the five themes that emerged, we focus on two here: (i) Negotiations with hegemonic masculinity; and (ii) Construction of alternative masculinities. These themes denote the need to recognize the multiplicity of ways of “being a man” and “being masculine”, contributing to the promotion of freer and more spontaneous lives.