Trans temporality: gender identity, transitory time and media ethics
Research Framework: The notions of “queer time” and “crip time” (queer and disabled temporalities) in queer and disability studies are descriptive and normative. On one hand, these notions represent a description of dominant temporality (heterosexual and non-disabled) versus non standard temporality (queer and disabled). On the other hand, they also offer a critique of dominant temporality from a normative standpoint. Objectives: Taking a normative and descriptive approach, this study explores a third, marginalized temporality—that of trans people. Methodology: By taking an intersectional approach, and though the use of autoethnographic methodology, this article analyses life stages, genders (cisgender versus transgender) and marginalized social temporalities to study trans temporality and its implications on the media’s representation of trans people. Results: I would argue that certain trans people are lead to experience an ‘overexposed’ temporality that pushes them to reveal themselves due to personal, community and social/media circumstances. Though this is a transitory moment, it is nevertheless often exploited by the media. Conclusions: I started with a history of the notions of queer and crip time and pointed out how they are part of the trans temporality. Then I addressed the specificities of trans temporality to show how it is marked by an overexposure of time. I then exposed how this overexposure of time is the object of media exploitation. In the conclusion, I ponder over the development of a media ethics policy that is more sensitive to marginalized groups. Contribution: This article makes an heuristic and epistemological contribution to marginalized temporalities, especially those of trans people, and on sociological reflections of time and life stages. It also contributes to gender, trans and disability studies as well as to media ethics.