Stigmatization and Social Exclusion of Transgender Individuals in Sargodha: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to explore how language, body language, and social behavior in Sargodha reflect transphobic attitudes and contribute to the social exclusion of transgender. People who are identified as transgender frequently face major obstacles, such as limited access to healthcare and employment possibilities, illiteracy, and domestic violence among many others. Due to their long absence from legal recognition for a long time, it has been increasingly difficult to comprehend their issues and evaluate the success of initiatives aimed at enhancing their socioeconomic circumstances. The study was qualitative in nature, and data were gathered using the case study approach. Data was collected through brief interviews of Transgender individuals from Sargodha. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis. The study's findings reveal that transgender individuals frequently face early rejection from their biological family, with fathers usually being more aggressive than mothers. Such rejection encourages peers and extended family to humiliate them, which often leads to school dropout. Due to stigmatization and shame, many are sent off to the transgender community, separating them from their homes. Another finding highlights that in public places, they are rarely treated with respect and women in particular are often unwilling to interact with them, even in official settings. This study suggested creating separate forums or designated space for transgender individuals to provide them with safe social environment.