Identifying the 't group'

"Trans" is sometimes used as shorthand for "transgender." While transgender is generally an appropriate term to use, not everyone whose appearance or behavior is gender-nonconforming can be identified as such.

There is no single explanation for why some people are transgender. Many experts believe that biological factors, such as genetic influences, prenatal hormone levels, and life experiences may all contribute to the development of a transgender identity.

Transgender people experience their sexual identity in a variety of ways, and may become aware of it at any age. Some can trace their identity and feelings back to their earliest memories. They may have vague feelings of not fitting in with other people of their assigned sex, or may actively wish to be something other than their assigned sex.